Belle was once one of the most followed influencers in Australia, and was one of the first “regular” people (that is, not a celebrity) to amass a monetisable following on social media. Peaking at roughly 300,000 followers, her now-deleted Instagram was the launch pad for a wellness empire. She launched a wellness-based food app, called The Whole Pantry before people were creating apps. It was so successful that when Apple launched its first Apple Watch, The Whole Pantry was one of the few apps preloaded onto the device. 

When journalists unravelled her claims, it wasn’t only lies about her health that were uncovered, but fraudulent charity work as well. Now, Netflix is creating a show inspired by Belle’s life, and naturally, there are some big names attached. Here, everything we know about the Apple Cider Vinegar series.

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar’s Release Date, Australia?

If you’re like us, you’ll want to pen the release of this one into your calendar. Apple Cider Vinegar will be released in Australia on February 6, 2025. There will also be a global premiere in Australia on February 3, where the series’ stylish stars will walk a red carpet. (Stay tuned for photos!)

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar About?

Apple Cider Vinegar is a six-part fictional series that follows two women as they try to cure their life-threatening illnesses through wellness and food. According to Netflix, “the six-episode limited series serves as a cultural interrogation of the times, exploring the birth of Instagram; the allure and rise of wellness culture; peak girl boss start-up culture; and the age of innocence on social media with very few checks and balances in place”.

“It’s really interesting to look at how media uses food as a weapon against us and how much we crave the nourishment, but how much of a privilege and how expensive it is to try to be well,” explains the show’s creator, award-winning Australian writer Samantha Strauss (Nine Perfect Strangers, The End, Dance Academy). 

Is Apple Cider Vinegar A True Story?

The series is based on the true story of Belle Gibson’s life, or more specifically, it was inspired by the book The Woman Who Fooled the World by Australian journalists Beau Donelly and Nick Toscano. It was Donelly and Toscano who originally broke the story that unravelled all of Belle’s claims. Read more about Belle Gibson’s real life.

Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar Cast

According to Netflix, though the story is based on the true life story of Belle Gibson and the main character is named Belle Gibson, many of the characters have been fictionalised.  

Kaitlyn Dever as Belle Gibson

The Booksmart actor plays Belle Gibson in this series. We know what you’re thinking and no, she isn’t Australian, but she did work very closely with a dialect coach to nail the Australian accent. 

Alycia Debnam-Carey as Milla Blake

Alycia Debnam-Carey is an Australian actor who you may recognise from The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart and Fear the Walking Dead. She plays Milla Blake, a woman who builds a platform promoting the power of food to fight cancer.

Aisha Dee as Chanelle

Aisha Dee, of The Bold Type and Safe Home, plays Milla’s close friend Chanelle, who meets Belle at an event and starts working with her to build her business into the empire it becomes.

Tilda Cobham-Hervey as Lucy

Tilda Cobham-Hervey previously starred in The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart and I Am Woman. She joins the Apple Cider Vinegar cast as Lucy, a woman who is diagnosed with cancer and is attracted to the promises both Milla and Belle make online.

Mark Coles Smith as Lucy’s Husband 

As Lucy’s husband, Mark Coles Smith’s (Mystery Road: Origin) character expresses concern over the impact Milla and Belle’s damaging ideas are having on his wife and her health.

Ensemble Cast 

• Ashley Zukerman (Succession)
• Susie Porter (Irreverent, Wentworth)
• Matt Nable (Transfusion, Last King of the Cross)
• Phoenix Raei (The Night Agent)
• Chai Hansen (Night Sky, The New Legends of Monkey)
• Richard Davies (Offspring)
• Essie Davis (The Babadook, Game of Thrones)
• Kieran Darcy-Smith (Mr Inbetween)
• Catherine McClements (Total Control)

Where Was Apple Cider Vinegar Filmed?

Apple Cider Vinegar was filmed on location in Melbourne, Australia — the same city where Belle Gibson lived, and continues to live.

Apple Cider Vinegar First Trailer

The first teaser trailer for Apple Cider Vinegar was released last year. Now, we have a new full length trailer to pore over. Want to know what you’re in for? Here you go…

The post Everything We Know About The Belle Gibson Series, ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ appeared first on ELLE.

Like all of us, I have laugh lines, fine lines, and an expressive face that means makeup can set into the little crevices around my eyes and mouth. I also touch my face quite a lot (can’t help it!), and knew that on my wedding day, I would spend much of the afternoon and evening kissing friends and family on the cheek, cuddling my loved ones, and also drinking and dancing the night away. Plus, the tears. With my sister as MC, there was a 100% chance I would cry throughout the night, and of course, that assumption proved to be true.

About a month out, I decided my worry about making my face last through the night was one I could easily fix. So, I found a makeup artist. After messaging countless, I landed on Sydney-based artist, Montanah Poulos. She had done my makeup at a Mecca event at the beginning of the year, and after one panicked email, she was locked in for a trial and the big day.

As a professional makeup artist, she knew exactly how to make my makeup last all day, and also had a few tricks up her sleeve to help me touch up my face as needed. I expected my lipstick to fade throughout the day, so stashed a lip liner and lipstick pot in my handbag, along with a loaded powder puff that I didn’t end up needing. During my trial, she admitted that one of her tricks for making my makeup last all day would be with the setting spray she finished the look with. Or more accurately, the two setting sprays. Her application technique and the setting spray combo worked a treat, and not only did she nail the brief. but she also ensured my makeup didn’t budge a millimetre.

What Is Setting Spray?

Think of a setting spray like hairspray for your makeup. Designed to use as the last step of your makeup routine, a good setting spray will add a weightless protective film over your glam to help prevent it from sweating or rubbing off over the course of the day. Countless sprays promise to help your makeup last, but there are actually two types that often get lumped together: finishing sprays and setting sprays.

When looking at the shelves in-store, you may not immediately be able to tell the difference between a finishing and setting spray. A finishing spray is designed to change the look (or finish) of your makeup, by helping the products melt into your skin, remove that dry or cakey look that can sometimes come with using a setting powder, or refresh your makeup after a day of wear. It will often contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, and a good example is the cult product, MAC Cosmetics Fix+, $54.

Conversely, a setting spray is designed to prolong the wear of your makeup and prevent it from transferring throughout the day but usually doesn’t offer the hydrating properties a finishing spray will. Most setting sprays will contain alcohol and a film-forming ingredient that will add a protective layer over your makeup.

When Should You Apply Setting Spray?

A setting spray works best when applied as the final step in your makeup routine. Experts generally agree that a little bit of technique can make all the difference in how a setting spray applies and lasts. Two rules of thumb are to hold the spray 20-30cm away from your face when spritzing (though be sure to read the directions for precise instructions) and to apply in a zig-zag motion from your forehead down.

Some pros also swear by using a setting spray to dampen their beauty sponge before using it to apply base products, and others also apply setting spray between each application of product.

The 2 Setting Sprays That Helped My Wedding Makeup Last

My makeup artist’s trick to achieving longevity for my wedding day makeup was to layer two setting sprays. Her products of choice were the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray, $54, and L’Oreal Paris Infallible Setting Spray, $14.99.

01

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray 100ml

$54 at Charlotte Tilbury

The first setting spray Montanah applied to my finished makeup look was the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray. A makeup artist and beauty editor favourite, this oil-free spray is a tried-and-true product that really does make your makeup last. It has a fine mist, so you won’t get any of those annoying wet splotches on your finished makeup. It is also formulated with aloe vera and green tea to hydrate the skin while film-forming ingredients act as a shield between your glam and the elements.

Sizes: 34ml, 100ml, 200ml | Key ingredients: Aloe vera, Japanese green tea, aromatic resin, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP, a film former).

Available at:

• $54 from Charlotte Tilbury
• $54 from Mecca

Shop Now

02

L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Mist 75ml

$14.99 at Chemist Warehouse

After the coat of Charlotte Tilbury setting spray had fully dried, Montanah applied the L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Mist. On application, it feels different from other setting sprays I’ve used. For starters, it’s an aerosol product and has an almost hairspray-like smell. The mist is extremely fine and weightless, as you would expect, and despite alcohol being on the ingredient list, it didn’t feel drying or sticky, or give the sensation of having a filmy product on my skin. With a three-second spray, I felt like my makeup was going to last — and through sideways rain, wind, crying, laughing, drinking, and dancing, this proved to be true.

Sizes: 75ml | Ingredients: Alcohol, copolymers (film formers).

Available at:

• $14.99 from Chemist Warehouse
• $18 from Big W
• $29.99 from Adore Beauty

Shop Now

The post The Setting Spray Combo That Helped My Wedding Makeup Last All Night appeared first on ELLE.

Ahead, we share some of our favourite unique engagement rings to shop in 2024.

Best Unique Engagement Rings To Shop In Australia In 2024

From clusters of stones to antique jewels, we’ve rounded up the most unique, alternative engagement rings for the bride that doesn’t do traditional.

01

Lindelli Soleil Antique Cut Cushion Half Bezel Solitaire

from $7,500 at Lindelli

Founded by Toya Worsley, Lindelli has made its name with a Hollywood-inspired aesthetic that captures emotions and memories in each design. Working largely with lab-grown diamonds and recycled metals, the brand also sources gemstones from ethical and responsible suppliers. Pieces often follow vintage-inspired cues with modern finishing touches—take this cushion half bezel solitaire set in a minimalist polished 18-karat gold band.

Key features:

• 18-karat yellow, rose and white gold or platinum options
• 2 carat cushion-cut diamond
• 1.9 mm band

Shop now

02

Cushla Whiting Romi Cigar Toi Et Moi Engagement Ring

from $8,000 at Cushla Whiting

Founded by Anna, Cushla and Hamish Whiting, the art of geology was passed to these siblings from their father, Peter Whiting, who started a wholesale diamond business in Auckland in 1978. The trio launched Cushla Whiting in 20213, to make the process of buying fine jewellery unintimidating. The result is classic yet architectural designs crafted from responsibly sourced metals and gemstones, and ethically sourced and Kimberley certified conflict-free diamonds. This cigar toi et moi ring is a particular favourite of ours, as it’s simple yet subtly intricate. The cigar band is modern and the off-centre stones will have people taking a second look.

Key features:

• Flat, polished cigar band
• Holds two bezel-set antique diamonds
• 18 karat gold
• Starting price based on 1-carat oval teal sapphire and 0.3-carat E-G colour SI1 round diamond

Shop now

03

Mociun Close Ring

$13,800 at Mociun

Mocium is a jewellery studio founded by Caitlin Mociun and based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Her goal when launching was to create one-of-a-kind and custom pieces that incorporate rare and unusual gemstones — and she’s more than succeeded. Even the solitaire diamond settings each have a point of difference, for example, an asymmetrical, blob-like bezel or a triangular step-cut centre diamond. Every single ring is gorgeous and the website is like a treasure trove for brides-to-be who want their ring to feel unique.

Key features:

• Cluster style set by hand in 18-karat solid yellow gold
• 1.00 ct. modified octagonal step cut I/VVS2 white diamond
• Flat prong setting
• 4.3mm gold band

Shop now

04

Catbird Midnight Hour Rose Cut Diamond Ring

$5,138 at Catbird

For 20 years, Brooklyn-born Catbird has created truly unique jewellery designs that skew towards a daintier, and more vintage aesthetic. This ring encapsulates that vibe perfectly, with a thin 1.5mm band adorned with six ethically sourced rose-cut diamonds. The cluster setting is also a love letter to the past, and has been designed to glimmer like a starry night.

Key features:

• Available in 14k recycled rose, yellow, and white gold, and platinum
• 0.78 total carat weight
• 1.5mm band width

Shop Now

05

Natalie Marie Jewellery Anthea Toi et Moi Ring

$15,000 at Natalie Marie Jewellery

Australian designer Natalie Marie Jewellery is based in Sydney’s northern beaches and is known for creating beautifully feminine and slimline pieces with character. There are plenty of options available to shop directly on the website, but if you’re looking for a bespoke design, you can make an appointment in the Avalon showroom to make your dream a reality.

Key features:

• Two-stone setting
• 0.70ct white diamond and 0.38ct salt and pepper diamond
• 18 karat yellow gold

Shop Now

06

Sarah & Sebastian Aria Pear Eternity Engagement Ring

$8,000 at Sarah & Sebastian

Sarah and Sebastian is a Sydney-based independent jewellery studio founded by Sarah Munro and Robert Sebastian Grynkofki. It’s a brand that passionately strives to make a positive environmental impact, with a particular focus on ocean conservation. This ring is particularly unique, as the architectural design mixes unexpected elements like a floating pear diamond and a smaller suspended pear cut diamond, plus a wrap-around gold band and half pavé.

Key features:

• Pavé diamonds along half of the band
• Floating pear diamond
• Wrapped, 18 karat yellow gold band

Shop Now

07

Anita Ko Large Leaf Diamond Ring

$12,075 at Anita Ko

This wrap-around band from Anita Ko is perfect for the nature-lover who also loves a bit of sparkle. With a combination of baguette and pavé diamonds, it epitomises everyday glamour, and opting for the rose gold metal also adds a vintage charm.

Key features:

• Available in 18-karat yellow, white, and rose gold
• 0.82 carats diamonds
• 0.79 carats baguette diamonds

Shop Now

08

Andria Barbone Remmy 1.43

$8,309 at Andria Barbone

A New York-based jeweller specialising in antique jewellery and resetting vintage stones in bespoke settings, Andria Barbone reliably produces heirloom pieces that will have every person you meet taking a second look. Many of the vintage stones used are hand-cut, which means they truly are one of a kind, plus, countless settings incorporate coloured stones like the one above.

Key features:

• 18 karat gold
• GIA-certified 1.43-carat Burma No Heat Step Cut Sapphire
• Total 0.12-carat baguette diamonds

Shop Now

09

Cullen Jewellery Sevela Oval Solitaire Wrap Ring

from $3,220 at Cullen Jewellery

Wrap-around rings with a half-band diamond pavé are a good choice for anyone who doesn’t like their jewellery to look too symmetrical. The slanted pavé band is the ideal blend of classic and modern, while the straight band means you can opt for a wedding band that sits flush against your engagement ring, if that’s what you desire.

• Available in 18 karat white, yellow, and rose gold, and platinum
• 0.65-carat centre diamond
• Pricing is for setting only and does not include centre stone

Shop Now

10

Seb Brown Engagement Ring

from $5,500 at Seb Brown

Melbourne-based jewellery studio Seb Brown produces rings that are often quite organic, made with metal that isn’t buffed to a high shine on completion, but rather, left rough and more matte. This ring is available with either a white or champagne diamond that sits flush against the top edge of the bezel, and though the ring is simple, it undoubtedly makes a statement.

• Recycled 18 karat yellow gold
• Includes 0.7-carat champagne diamond or white diamond
• Flush bezel setting

Shop Now

Can Any Ring Be An Engagement Ring?

When you start considering planning a wedding, you learn very quickly that everyone else has a set of rules that, in their view, must be adhered to. Everything from the location of the wedding, to what you wear, and what day of the week you host your big event on is all up for debate. The same could be said for your engagement ring, but we all know the truth: any ring can be an engagement ring. Try to sidestep any pressure to select a diamond ring if that’s not what you want — coloured stones or alternate precious gemstones are just as beautiful. You’re the one who has to wear it forever, after all.

Related article:

• The 20 Most Romantic Celebrity Engagement Ring Shots In Instagram History
• Alternative Wedding Bands For The Cool-Girl Bride
• Consider The Organic Wedding Ring Trend Your Permission To Ditch Tradition

The post 10 Unique Engagement Rings Perfect For The Non-Traditional Bride appeared first on ELLE.

The beauty (pun intended) of giving your loved ones a beauty-themed gift this holiday season is that it’s an opportunity to treat them to a little luxury that they might not otherwise buy for themselves. Also, it gives you a chance to take a good look at the limited edition sets available at this time of year, and stock up on any of your favourites for a discounted price.

From the best beauty buys, and limited edition releases to skincare, or the ultimate gift set, we have found the most coveted beauty gifts to shop this festive season.

Find our top picks for beauty gifts below. And go on, why not buy one for yourself while you’re here?

The Best Beauty Christmas Gift Ideas In 2024

01

Augustinus Bader The Tinted Balm

$66 at Augustinus Bader

Chic little luxury beauty gifts like this tinted lip balm from Augustinus Bader are my idea of the perfect beauty gift. I probably couldn’t justify spending $66 on a lip balm, but would adore someone buying it for me as a gift.

The tinted balms were created in collaboration with filmmaker Sofia Coppola, who reportedly approached the brand herself to request a tinted version of her favourite lip balm. At Mecca, only the wine shade is still available (the other two have sadly sold out), but you can also shop the full range directly via Augustinus Bader and also on Cult Beauty. And if my family or friends are reading this — this is what I want for Christmas, thank you.

Available at:

• $66 at Augustinus Bader (or $168 for three shades from Augustinus Bader)
• $66 from Mecca
• $65 from Cult Beauty

Shop Now

02

Merit Beauty Five Minute Morning

$282 at Merit

Since launching in Australia in September, Merit has become a staple in our makeup bags, making us well-qualified to recommend them as a great gift this festive season. The Five Minute Morning includes a few of the brand’s best sellers, including The Minimalist foundation stick, a highlight, mascara, cream blush, tinted brow gel, lip oil, and a makeup brush (it’s brilliant). It’s a great way to help them try a good selection of products from the range.

Shop Now

03

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep

$37.50 at Adore Beauty

Give the gift of glowing skin with this viral sheet mask from K-beauty favourite Biodance. Designed to be worn for at least three hours (but preferably overnight), the hydrogel mask starts white and turns transparent as the skin absorbs its highly concentrated dose of topical collagen. With four masks in this box, they’ll be thanking you for their plump, glowing skin well into the New Year.

Shop Now

04

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Iconic Lip And Cheek Secrets

$89 at Charlotte Tilbury

If the words “Pillow Talk” don’t mean anything to you, just know that it’s a safe gift option for most beauty lovers. Charlotte Tilbury reliably creates some of our favourite makeup products, and this set includes a few products from its most iconic Pillow Talk range: a Lip Cheat lip liner, Pillow Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm gloss, Matte Revolution lipstick in Pillow Talk, and a Beauty Light Wand highlighter in Pillow Talk.

Available at:

• $83 from Charlotte Tilbury
• $89 from Mecca

Shop Now

05

Dyson Airstrait

$588 at Dyson

Few beauty launches excite us more than a Dyson hair tool launch, so we were thrilled when the Airstrait finally landed in Australia earlier this year. Though it may look like your average hair straightener, it uses high-pressure air streams to dry and style the hair, rather than hot plates. If you (or your giftee) prefer a sleek blow-dried look and are trying to reduce the amount of damaging heat you inflict on your strands, this tool will be a very welcome gift.

Shop Now

06

Rare Beauty Mini Blush And Luminize Trio

$68 at Sephora

Rare Beauty’s liquid blushes are known for their high pigment, which means a tube will last you literal years. That’s why these minis are so perfect, because while they may look small, we promise they will last a very long time. This limited edition set includes three of the brand’s best-selling cheek products, including two liquid blush shades and one highlighter.

Shop Now

07

Ouai Holiday Duo

$74 at Sephora

If you’re looking for a gift for yourself or a lovely little stocking stuffer, this duo from Ouai conveniently includes two of my most-used hair products in one discounted set. The Ouai Detox Shampoo is the best clarifying shampoo I’ve used, giving the hair a deep clean without stripping it or making it feel like straw afterwards (a rarity). Meanwhile, the Leave-In Conditioner quickly detangles and hydrates the hair, while also offering heat protection from hot tools.

Shop Now

08

Summer Fridays The Signature Travel Skincare Set

$70 at Mecca

One thing your gift recipient deserves this summer is plump, glowing skin. This collection from Summer Fridays features gentle skincare products that won’t upset sensitive skin, plus a seriously cute mini tube of the brand’s lip balm — a glossy balm that’s hydrating and layers beautifully over other lip products.

Shop Now

09

Westman Atelier The Petal Edition

$222 at Mecca

Westman Atelier makeup products are chic, ultra-luxurious, and also some of the best performing on the market. This collection brings together a few of the brand’s cult products: the Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Petal, Lit Up Highlighter Stick in Petal, and Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm in Petal. Each product comes in a rosy-pink hue that provides the face with the perfect summer flush.

Shop Now

10

Glossier You Doux And Rêve

$129 at Mecca

Glossier fans will be thrilled to receive one of the new fragrance releases from the brand this festive season. If they’re already a big fan of the classic You fragrance, be warned that these two are quite different. Doux is a milky, woody, and slightly floral fragrance that has a warm and musky base, and some have compared it to the cult Le Labo 33.

Meanwhile, Rêve is a rich gourmand fragrance, with notes of buttercream and toasted almond, with the same musky ambrox base as the other You fragrances. Both will be available to shop for a very limited time at Mecca from November 19, as well as on the Glossier website.

Available at:

• $129 from Mecca
• $145 from Glossier

Shop Now

11

Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ The Intensive Gel Mask

$164 at Mecca

In the lead-up to my wedding this year, this is the one new product I incorporated into my skincare routine, and I credit it for having calm, bright, and smooth skin on my big day. The gel mask is lightweight and easy to slap on, and though it’s recommended to wear for 10 minutes, I’m lazy and leave it on overnight, one night a week.

It’s extremely hydrating and I wake with glowing and plumped skin the morning after, which was a godsend for my compromised skin barrier and sensitised skin a month out from my wedding.

Shop Now

12

Rationale Beautiful Balms Signature Glow Set

$296 at Rationale

Opening a present and finding Rationale (anything from Rationale) within will elicit a squeal from any beauty lover. The brand’s latest launch, the Beautiful Balms, are exactly what the name suggests, a quad of balm products that deliver beautiful skin. With a cream bronzer, blush, highlight, and lip colour in the set, this is a one-way ticket to glowing skin. They’re easily blendable with the fingers or a brush, and have a natural finish on the skin — perfect for the minimalist beauty lover — plus, they’re SPF 30, adding a bit of extra protection over your usual sunscreen.

Shop Now

13

Creed Perfume Five-Piece Discovery Set

$399 at Creed Perfume

When gifting fragrance to a loved one, we always suggest picking up a discovery set, unless you know them very well. This set from Creed includes a collection of the brand’s iconic fragrances like Aventus For Her and Love in White, and we have a feeling that it will help your giftee track down their signature scent for 2025.

Shop Now

14

GHD Duet Blowdry 2-In-1 Hair Dryer Brush

$476 at The Iconic

In my humble opinion, the GHD Duet Blowdry brush was one of the best hair tool launches of 2024. The brush is designed to take your hair from dry to straight, leaving you with styled hair in a few brief sweeps. If the Dyson Airstrait is for people who prefer a pin-straight finish, this is for people who want their hair to be bouncy and volumised.

Available at:

• $476 from The Iconic
• $484 (usually $605) from Myer
• $595 from Adore Beauty

Shop Now

15

Revlon Illuminance Glow Filter

$17.47at Chemist Warehouse

Revlon’s Illuminance Glow Filter is a sheer and glowy makeup product that can be used alone for a naturally radiance skin finish, or underneath foundation to give a lit from within glow. It’s pumped with skin-loving ingredients like squalane, to plump and hydrate the skin while the iridescent pigments provide a filter-like blur to the skin.

Shop Now

16

Tronque Firming Body Butter

$130 at Tronque

For the person who is religious about their body care routine, the Firming Butter from New Zealand brand Tronque will make a gorgeous stocking stuffer. It’s formulated with a rich and hydrating blend of shea, cacao, and mango butters that will feel like a hug for dry skin, plus, it’s pumped with skincare ingredients that are designed to hydrate and calm the skin (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are three), plus red maple bark to firm.

Shop Now

17

No.7 Restore & Renew Face and Neck Multi-Action Gift Set 5 Piece

$69.00 at Priceline

The perfect gift whether your loved one is a skincare newbie or aficionado! The No.7 Restore and Renew range contains the hard-working peptide Matrixyl 3000 plus, an active designed to firm and smooth the skin. This comprehensive gift set includes the range’s famous neck cream (because your skincare routine should stop at your decollete) along with the brand’s day cream, night cream, eye cream and retinol concentrate.

Shop Now

18

Max Factor Facefinity All Day Flawless 3 in 1 Foundation

$32.95 at Priceline

If you want an affordable foundation stocking stuffer, consider this 3-in-1 solution by Max Factor, with a built-in primer and concealer. The Vegan formula is best for youthful skin requiring a light coverage.

Shop Now

The post The Ultimate Christmas Gift Edit For Your Favourite Beauty Lover appeared first on ELLE.

The boat shoe trend doesn’t really come as a surprise. In September, Bally and Miu Miu sent boat shoes down their spring/summer 2024 runways in Milan. Like clockwork, the masculine style has popped up in street style galleries and on Instagram, styled with everything from relaxed jeans (to complete the dad vibe, no doubt) and floaty dresses.

More recently, Japanese label Auralee followed suit with a more loose-fitting version included in its spring 2025 ready-to-wear collection, shown in Paris in June. Meanwhile, Timberland reminded us that boat shoes are one of its forever styles with videos showing stylish Parisians embracing the style for summer.

The humble boat shoe is certainly not a new style, and in fact, the first version of this preppy icon was created by American man Paul A. Sperry in 1935. A New Haven, Connecticut local himself, it’s hardly surprising that in the 90-odd years since their inception, boat shoes have become emblematic of the East Coast prep and a wardrobe staple for the Ivy League man (and dads everywhere).

One conversation that’s popped up in the ELLE Australia office since noting the rise of the boat shoe centres around what separates them from the loafer or moccasin. And it’s a fair debate (if we do say so ourselves). Many brands are calling these new styles loafers, and they’re not wrong, as the modern boat show is quite loafer-like.

But the most obvious defining feature of a boat shoe is the stitching; with a puckered, moccasin- or penny loafer-style toe, the boat shoe is easily distinguishable by its lacing style — specifically, the leather side laces. This was originally introduced as a 360 shoelace that allowed wearers to really tie the shoe to the foot (so it doesn’t fall off while tending to a boat, we assume). These days, the side and rear laces are often just decorative accents. It also typically had a white rubber sole, but that doesn’t seem so important in 2024.

Boat shoes reemerging as a trend makes sense. Many of us are looking for low-heel or flat footwear options for everyday wear; we want a closed-toe shoe that works with a summer dress but also looks cute under a slouchy pair of jeans, and is appropriate for all seasons — and the boat shoe is exceedingly versatile.

Take the designer options above as examples. The Miu Miu option is polished, with a toe that’s less puckered than the traditional styles and a rubber sole that makes them extra comfortable. Meanwhile, Bally has leaned into a low-profile loafer style, with a more tapered toe and formal sole that elevates the shoe from relaxed to polished, while still being casual enough for daywear. Timberland’s boat shoes are chunkier, and Auralee’s are created with buttery soft leather that looks as comfortable as it is stylish.

Boat shoes are no longer just for dads or boat owners heading to the Hamptons for the summer. They’re for the girlies, and we’re thrilled about it.

The Best Boat Shoes To Shop For Summer 2024

01

Miu Miu Faded Unlined Suede Loafer

$1,460 at Miu Miu

Key features:

• Suede leather
• Rubber sole
• Embossed Miu Miu logo on tongue

Available at:

• $1,460 from Miu Miu

Shop Now

02

BALLY Pathy Leather Boat Shoe Loafer

$1,243 at Net-A-Porter

Key features:

• Black buffalo leather
• Gold eyelets and leather laces
• Reverse Goodyear construction

Available at:

• $1,243 from Miu Miu
• $1,490 from Farfetch
• $1,220 from Luisaviaroma

Shop Now

03

Timberland Classic Leather Boat Shoe

$199.99 at Timberland

Key features:

• Responsibly sourced leather upper
• Leather laces and heel
• Traditional handsewn construction

Available at:

• $199.99 from Timberland

Shop Now

The post It Looks Like We’re All Headed For A Boat Shoe Summer appeared first on ELLE.

I like to take my time in the morning, with a routine that is less about deep breathing or squeezing in a sweaty session at the gym, and more about having time to finish my coffee and faff about while I select the exact combination of makeup products to suit my mood. Lately, one brand has consistently popped up in my relaxing morning routine, and that brand is Merit Beauty.

Merit Beauty is an American-born brand that hopes to simplify your makeup routine with its tightly edited range of easy-to-use products that provide a skin-like finish on the skin. Recently, it started shipping to Australia. Immediately, I filled my makeup bag with the range to find out if it was worth the hype, and a month on, five of those products are still in my daily rotation.

Though I use many makeup products each morning, or perhaps because I use so many products every morning, I still have a few non-negotiables when looking for formulations to add to my routine. They must be easily blendable (because I’m impatient), layer well (because I love adding multiple products on top of one another), and also not be too pigmented or heavy (because I prefer a minimalist makeup finish). I’ve found the products below tick all of those boxes.

Ahead, I’ve rounded up the five products I’ve returned to again and again since Merit Beauty launched in Australia.

The Best Merit Beauty Products 2025

01

The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

$61 at Merit Beauty

Best for: light-medium coverage

I’m a huge fan of products I can scribble on and blend out easily with a dense brush or sponge — and this product is exactly that. It promises to act as a foundation and concealer in one product, and I’ve found that to be true. I have pretty dark circles, so sometimes add a tiny dot of concealer underneath my eyes to amp up the coverage, but most days, an extra layer of this product (tapped on with my finger) is all I need.

Key features:

• Available in 30 shades
• Easy-to-apply stick format
• Hydrating formula

Shop now

02

Flush Balm Cheek Colour

$48 at Merit Beauty

Best for: a fresh flush

This blendable cream blush has a slightly dewy finish and adds a natural tint to the cheek without making it look like you’re wearing layers of product. I’m a huge fan of the Rouge shade, a sheer red colour that may look daunting when first swiped on your cheek, but blends to a true flush. Of the few shades I’ve tried, Rouge definitely lasts the longest on my skin.

If you want to try a few shades from the range, perhaps consider picking up one of Merit’s holiday sets, The Mini Flush Balm Trio, which includes three mini balms in the shades Mood, Stockholm and Bespoke (this last one is a limited edition shade).

Key features:

• Available in 9 shades
• Lightweight, buildable formula
• Contains conditioning vitamin E

Shop now

03

Solo Shadow Matte Eye Colour

$38 at Merit Beauty

Best for: a no-fuss eyeshadow look

This cream-to-powder eyeshadow is ideal for anyone who refuses to stand around blending each product for longer than five seconds (me!). I’ve been using the shade Studio (a cool-toned taupe) over my entire eyelid most days since I received it, to even out any discolouration and prevent excessive creasing. It might be the most crease-resistant eyeshadow I’ve used, and the flattering, barely there colour adds just the right amount of depth to my everyday makeup look.

I’ve also applied the Midnight shade (a true navy) with an angled brush for a slightly undone, blurred eyeliner effect and I’m working up the courage to apply it as a monochrome smokey eyeshadow.

Key features:

• Available in 8 shades
• Soft matte finish
• Ophthalmologist tested and approved for sensitive eyes

Shop Now

04

Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara

$42 at Merit Beauty

Best for: smudge-proof and volumised lashes

Something you should know about me is almost every mascara ends up halfway down my face by lunchtime. This mascara by Merit is one of three that doesn’t have this effect.

One thing they all have in common is that they’re tubing formulas, which means the mascara forms a film (or tube, as the name suggests) around each individual lash, preventing smudging and flaking throughout the day. This formula promises to be lengthening, which is true, but I also find it to be volumising and buildable (though that could be because I usually favour the brown Glossier Lash Slick, $37, which has a more subtle effect overall), for which I’m grateful.

Key features:

• Tubing formula
• Contains conditioning olive oil and vitamin E
• Lengthening
• Buildable volume

Shop Now

05

Brow 1980 Volumising Pomade

$38 at Merit Beauty

Best for: subtle brow definition

I usually favour a clear, concrete-hold brow gel that keeps every hair in place all day. But for the past month, I’ve reached for this tinted brow pomade to add a touch of colour and the illusion of thicker brows before brushing on my clear brow gel to hold it all in place. It is a weightless formula with a subtle tint that makes it difficult to overapply on the first swipe, and is perfect for anyone who can’t be bothered messing around with brow pencils but wants a slightly stronger brow.

Key features:

• Available in 4 shades
• Contains conditioning vitamin B5
• Natural colour from kaolin clay and mineral pigments

Shop now

06

Five Minute Morning Core Collection

$282 (usually $329) at Merit Beauty

Best for: trying the range

For indecisive folk who want to try the entire Merit Beauty Core Collection, the Five Minute Morning will have your makeup bag restocked in record time. It includes a few of the products mentioned above, plus the Day Glow Highlighting Balm, Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil (a beautiful product that only just missed out on making my top five!), and Brush No. 1 Blending Brush (a brilliant dense complexion brush). You can also mix and match shades.

Set includes:

• The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
• Flush Balm Cheek Colour
• Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil
• Brush No. 1 Blending Brush
• Day Glow Highlighting Balm
• Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara
• Brow 1980 Tinted Brow Pomade

Shop now

Related article:

• It Girl Beauty Brand Merit Is Finally Available In Australia
• The Best Rhode Beauty Dupes To Shop In Australia
• How To Sweat-Proof Your Makeup This Summer

The post I’ve Been Trialling Merit Beauty And These Are My Favourite Products appeared first on ELLE.

Ahead, I explain exactly which cream blushes are actually worth your time and money, so you can look like a sunkissed queen year round (without any harmful UV exposure, of course).

The Best Cream Blush To Shop In 2024

01

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Dewy Liquid Blush Mini (Limited Edition)

$ 27 at Sephora

If you’re looking for a blush that offers unmatched colour payoff, the Rare Beauty blushes are The Ones. Easily blendable and with a satin finish, these blushes are universally loved for their staying power. That said, they should come with a word of warning: start with just one little dot and build up to your desired colour as they’re easy to overdo. The benefit of this is that the tube lasts seemingly forever — which is why we’ve recommended you save a few dollars and pick up a mini instead.

Key features:

• Available in 7 shades
• Blendable liquid formula
• Extremely pigmented

Available at:

• $27 from Sephora
• $25 from Rare Beauty

Shop now

02

Chanel N°1 De Chanel Lip & Cheek Balm

$75 at Chanel

This cream blush from Chanel Beauty gives the skin a true sunkissed flush (without the sun damage) that lasts through the day. (The vibrant coral shade is our favourite for this.) It has a balmy texture that easily melts into the skin when applied with your fingers, and it adds a glass-like translucency to the skin, which is rare for a product that also lasts all day long, like this one does.

Key features:

• Available in 10 shades
• Balmy texture that blends into skin and lips
• Enriched with red camellia oil for hydration

Available at:

• $75 from Chanel
• $75 from Myer
• $75 from David Jones

Shop now

03

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip & Cheek Glow

$60 at Charlotte Tilbury

If there’s one thing Charlotte Tilbury never misses on, it’s complexion products. Her foundations and glow-giving base products are unmatched, but this balm-like cream blush is (in my opinion) slept on. The product has a balmy texture, and unlike many other cream blushes, it looks as good over a full face of makeup and also layered over bare skin. The ‘Colour of Dreams’ shade is also my go-to on days when I can’t be bothered wearing bronzer, as it adds a flattering flush that holds its own.

Key features:

• Available in two shades
• Sheer-buildable colour
• Balmy blendable texture

Available at:

• $60 from Charlotte Tilbury
• $60 from Mecca

Shop Now

04

Makeup By Mario Soft Pop Plumping Blush Veil

$55 at Sephora

This blush by Makeup By Mario is appropriately named, as the sheer-buildable cream formaula adds a soft pop of colour over the cheek. It’s simple to blend with fingers, a sponge, or a brush, and it adds a sheer luminosity to the cheeks. It is a buildable formula, but in my experience, it’s also extremely easy to work with (it’s basically un-muck-up-able).

Key features:

• Available in 10 shades
• Weightless and luminous finish
• Perfect for no-makeup-makeup

Available at:

• $55 from Sephora

Shop Now

05

Saie Dew Blush Dreamy

$39.60 at Cult Beauty

It’s a crime that Saie Beauty (and therefore, this blush) isn’t available readily in Australian stores (take notes Sephora and Mecca!). You can pick this up online at Cult Beauty, and if it makes you nervous to buy before you try, then take it from me — it’s perfection. The doefoot applicator is large and plush (important) and the formulation is pigmented. Though the packaging may look similar to Rare Beauty, it’s actually quite a different product, with a more luminous and glassy finish on the skin that isn’t greasy or shiny at all. It also layers beautifully over powder, if you like to add a little extra pop of colour right at the end of your makeup routine.

Key features:

• Available in 8 shades
• Convenient doefoot applicator
• Glass-like finish

Available at:

• $39.60 from Cult Beauty

Shop Now

06

Milk Makeup Lip & Cheek Blush

$42 at Sephora

Milk Makeup was one of the OG makeup brands to popularise cream blush sticks, and is known for its easy-to-use and blendable formula. It’s available in 11 shades, and though the packaging has shrunk over the years, the product is still the same size and will last you a very long time.

Key features:

• Available in 11 shades
• Includes hydrating skincare ingredients, mango butter, avocado oil, and apricot oil
• Multi-use stick for lips and cheeks

Available at:

• $42 from Sephora

Shop Now

07

Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

$35 at Sephora

For a fuss-free blush that blends beautifully with your fingers and delivers a healthy flush, the Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out blush is a good option. It’s available in 11 shades and is non-greasy, plus, its sheer colour payoff means you can build it up as you like, without risking going overboard.

Key features:

• Available in 14 shades
• Non-greasy
• Blends easily with fingers

Available at:

• $35 from Sephora
• $35 from Fenty Beauty

Shop Now

08

MCo Beauty Cheek & Lip Tint

$14 at The Iconic

Though this MCo blush may look like it’s duping the Glossier Cloud Paint, the product is actually extremely different. With a gel-cream consistency, it is hydrating and makes a great blush “topper” to add some shine to complete your look.

Key features:

• Available in 5 shades
• Gel-cream consistency
• Adds shine to the skin

Available at:

• $14 from The Iconic
• $14 from Woolworths
• $8.39 (usually $14) from Chemist Warehouse

Shop Now

09

Nars Afterglow Liquid Blush

$53 at Mecca

Nars is another brand that never fails to turn out a beautiful complexion product. This liquid blush has more of a lightweight gel consistency that adds a glassy pop of colour to the cheeks. It’s definitely buildable, and I always like to add it to the cheek along with my other cream products, then top up the colour after applying powder to keep my skin looking luminous and maintain that flirty flush for longer.

Key features:

• Available in 9 shades
• Gel consistency
• Transfer-proof

Available at:

• $53 from Mecca

Shop Now

10

Violette_Fr Bisou Blush

$58 at Mecca

When French makeup artist Violette Serrat brought her makeup brand to Australia last year, beauty editors (including this one) flocked to Mecca to get a piece. The Bisou Blush is a standout product (along with the Bisou Balm blurring lipstick and Yeux Paint Twinkling, I refuse to choose my favourite children) and has a firmer texture than most other cream blushes in my kit. This results in a more satin-matte finish on the skin that lets your freckles and skin texture shine through without accentuating them. It’s truly perfection.

Key features:

• Available in 4 shades
• Firm, stick formula
• Lightweight matte finish

Available at:

• $58 from Mecca

Shop Now

11

Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush

$80 at Mecca

Lovers of luxury beauty probably already have one or two Westman Atelier products in their stash. The Baby Cheeks blushes are one of the brand’s more iconic products, thanks to their staying power and flattering shade range. They’re creamy and the colour is buildable and longlasting, plus, the stick packaging makes them great for travel.

Key features:

• Available in 8 shades
• Includes organic jojoba oil to nourish the skin
• Contains biomimicry pigments to mimic a natural flush
• Longwearing colour

Available at:

• $80 from Mecca

Shop Now

12

Georgio Armani Luminous Silk Cheek Tint

$70 at Adore Beauty

If you’ve also been swept into Sabrina Carpenter’s candy-pop world and found yourself wondering how she achieves her dramatic yet youthful flush, it’s with these new blushes from Georgio Armani. The blush is said to have a watercolour effect on the skin that was inspired by the brand’s lipstick formulas, delivering a vibrant but lightweight blush to the cheek.

Key features:

• Available in 6 shades
• Radiant finish
• Thin, lightweight consistency

Available at:

• $70 from Adore Beauty
• $70 from Georgio Armani

Shop Now

Are Cream Blushes Better Than Powder Blush?

Neither a cream nor powder blush is necessarily “better” than the other, but one may be better for you. It all depends on the finish you prefer on your skin. If you like a glowy and skin-like finish, or have skin on the drier side, then a cream blush may be better for you. Conversely, if you want a matte, or stronger highlight effect on the skin, then a powder formula that delivers the desired result may be best.

Does Cream Blush Make You Look Younger?

Cream blushes are often praised for giving a “youthful” flush to the skin, likely because they often have a glowy or juicy finish on the skin. This is something makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes regularly speaks about on her TikTok channel, though she also credits the placement of cream blush for giving a truly youthful finish. She always explains that priming the brush is the best way to achieve a natural look with cream products, which means working the product into the brush until it looks stained but not filled with product, which results in you having more control when applying the product. The result? Looking like you’ve spent some time in the sun or the wind (perfect).

Related article:

• TikTok Has A Genius Hack To Find A Perfect Purple Blush For Every Skin Tone
• Are You Blush Blind? Exactly How To Apply Your Favourite Blush
• 8 Velvety-Smooth Cream Bronzers For A Deliciously Dewy Contour

The post 12 Cream Blushes That Give Us A Summer Flush In Every Season appeared first on ELLE.

Hydrating serums are usually the best products to turn to when looking to give your skin a thorough hit of hydration. In our experience, a serum that includes hyaluronic acid or ceramides and glycerin (or a combination of the three) will help dry skin without irritating it. Ahead, we share a few of our favourites.

The Best Serums For Dry Skin In 2024

01

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum

$ 73.54 at Revolve

Summer Fridays is known for creating skincare products that feel like a big hug for sensitive skin. This serum, in particular, feels like a big drink of water for your skin, with a gel-like consistency that absorbs quickly. It’s pumped with hydrating ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid and, in our experience, sits beautifully under the rest of our skincare and makeup. Its lightweight texture makes it great for the summertime, but we find it hydrating enough for winter as well. The packaging is also a pump delivery system, which means you don’t have to fuss around with a dropper.

Key features:

• Lightweight gel-like texture
• Contains plant-derived squalane to deeply hydrate the skin
• Vegan formula
• Good for sensitive and acne-prone skin

Available at:

• Revolve
• Mecca

Shop now

02

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Ageing Serum

$51.99 (RRP $74.95) at Chemist Warehouse

La Roche-Posay is a French pharmacy brand regularly recommended by dermatologists, thanks to its ability to create products that do their job without irritating skin. This serum was originally formulated as part of its anti-wrinkle range, as it claims to plump fine lines while intensely hydrating sensitive skin. The three key ingredients in this formula that target dry skin are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vitamin B5. Hyaluronic acid plumps the skin, while vitamin B5 helps the skin absorb moisture in the air to maintain hydration, and glycerin is a humectant that helps hydrate the skin.

Key features:

• Lightweight water-gel texture
• Formulated for sensitive skin
• Claims to plump fine lines

Available at:

• $51.99 from Chemist Warehouse
• $74.95 from Adore Beauty
• $74.95 from Priceline

Shop now

03

Skin Renewal Serum

$88 at Grown Alchemist

Melbourne-born brand Grown Alchemist is a favourite for its efficacious formulas and minimalist packaging. This lightweight gel-based serum is designed to help the skin renew and protect itself. Antioxidant and adaptogen ingredients like niacinamide, ashwagandha and echinacea are key to this potent serum—glycerin and hyaluronic acid also feature to help restore hydration in the skin and boost moisture levels.

Key features:

• Lightweight water-gel texture
• Use morning and night
• Claims to reduce fine lines

Shop now

04

The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum

$17 at Sephora

This hyaluronic acid serum is a no-frills product that does its job without any fanfare. It contains 2% multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, which holds 1000 times its weight in water to help hydrate your skin. The water-like texture is also non-sticky and soaks into the skin immediately. Plus, the price point is so friendly that you don’t need to ration it out — permission to apply with abandon.

Key features:

• Non-sticky, water-like texture
• Absorbs quickly
• Contains 2% multi-molecular Hyaluronic Acid

Available at:

• $17 from Sephora
• $17 from ASOS

Shop Now

05

Augustinus Bader The Serum

$583 at Mecca

Though it pains me to say it, this luxury serum (called The Serum) from Augustinus Bader truly gave me the best glassy skin of my life. And in record time. It’s formulated with the brand’s patented TFC8, a combination of amino acids, vitamins and molecules naturally found in skin that was created by Bader himself as a solution for healing the skin of people who had suffered serious burn injuries. As for the serum itself, it combats skin dehydration with sodium hyaluronate and claims to fight against environmental aggressors (thanks to the inclusion of vitamin C). This is a serious investment, but one that you may deem appropriate — even if only in the lead-up to a big life event such as a wedding.

Key features:

• Includes patented TFC8 to support the skin’s natural repair and renewal processes
• Hyaluronic acid helps to plump dehydrated skin
• Contains antioxidant ingredients to fight environmental aggressors
• Cruelty-free formula

Available at:

• $583 from Mecca

Shop Now

06

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

$15.90 at Adore Beauty

The Ordinary recently reformulated its fan-favourite hyaluronic acid serum, not because there was anything wrong with the original, but because the brand thought they could improve it even more. The main differences between this new formula and the old one are that it now contains five types of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and pro-vitamin B5. It now also claims to plump and hydrate the skin, while helping to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier.

Key features:

• Weightless texture
• Contains five types of hyaluronic acid
• Claims to minimise fine lines

Available at:

• $15.90 from Adore Beauty
• $16 from Sephora
• $15.90 from Priceline

Shop Now

07

Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster

$59Price at Paula’s Choice

This hyaluronic acid serum from Paula’s Choice takes a three-pronged approach to combating dry skin, using hyaluronic acid to smooth the skin, and ceramides to support the skin barrier, plus panthenol to help lock in moisture.

Key features:

• Light, fluid-gel texture
• Contains nourishing ceramides
• Formulated for ultra-dry skin types

Available at:

• $59 from Paula’s Choice

Shop Now

08

Mecca Max Watercooler Calming Hydration Serum

$26 at Mecca

This serum lives up to its name, with a lightweight and non-sticky formula that is affordable but still feels luxurious when applied to dry skin. It contains vitamin B5, fermented birch juice and green algae extract which claim to join forces to give you bouncy skin and long-lasting hydration. We have been through countless bottles of this stuff, it’s just lovely.

Key features:

• Fragrance-free
• Contains green algae extract, which claims to protect the skin from collagen damage
• Cruelty-free formula

Available at:

• $26 from Mecca

Shop Now

09

Clarins Double Serum

$240 at Clarins

The Clarins Double Serum is a beauty editor favourite, thanks to its gentle yet potent anti-ageing formula. As the name suggests, this dual-formula combines water- and oil-based serums in one, harnessing 22 plant extracts to target signs of ageing. The hero ingredients in Double Serum are organic giant Provençal reed, a plant extract that helps bolster the skin’s resistance to visible signs of ageing caused by environmental aggressors, and turmerone, a turmeric extra that supports skin at a cellular level.

Key features:

• Lightweight yet hydrating formula
• Suitable for all skin types
• Formulated with 95% naturally derived ingredients

Available at:

• $240 from Clarins

Shop Now

Should Serums Be Applied To Dry Skin?

When adding a serum to your skincare routine, it’s best to apply your products from thinnest to thickest. By this logic, serums will usually be applied first after cleansing your skin — but that doesn’t mean applying them onto dry skin. Serums that contain hyaluronic acid (the most common ingredient in hydrating serums) benefit from being applied to damp skin to help maximise hydration. As we’ve mentioned above, hyaluronic acid is a water-binding ingredient that can hold many times its weight in water, so applying it to damp skin will help to draw that water into the skin (which is what we want).

Related articles:

• The 6 Best Hair Growth Serums For Longer, Lustrous Hair
• 10 Beauty Must-Haves To Completely Transform Dry Winter Skin
• 8 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serums For Glossy, Gleaming Skin

The post 9 Serums Your Dry Skin Will Love appeared first on ELLE.

We don’t generally endorse making sudden purchases for a single event that has no practical application in your wardrobe for seasons to come.

So, it’s with that in mind that we scoured the internet for a selection of party season bags that will see you through the warmer months and beyond. Ahead, you’ll find bags to add a subtle sparkle to your outfits, or that are just the right size for fitting your essentials in before a night out.

The Best Party Season Bags 2024

01

Rabanne Iconic 1969 Nano Shoulder Bag

$1,086 at Farfetch

Add a touch of disco and chainmail chic to your party outfits with this iconic (by name and reputation) bag from Rabanne. The strap is surprisingly long for a shoulder bag of this size, so you can easily sling it over your shoulder and dance hands-free through the season.

Shop now

02

M.N.G. Olalla Bag

$59.97 (usually $99.95) at The Iconic

For the sparkle lovers who still want their party season bag to match their neutral capsule wardrobe, this bag mixes sequins and beads in the same bronze tone to give an interesting texture and look.

Shop Now

03

Ganni Crystal Embellished Handbag

$295 at Farfetch

The Ganni butterfly pouch bag has been given a subtle party makeover with crystal embellishments in the shape of the distinct Ganni logo. The recycled polyester bag is neutral enough for day wear and just glitzy enough to suit any type of party. Plus, the zipper closure will keep everything safely tucked inside while you dance.

Shop Now

04

Faux Pearl Beaded Bucket Bag

$79.95 at Zara

For a beaded bag that also keeps your belongings safely tucked inside the bag, we suggest picking up this affordable bucket bag from Zara. The neutral satin interior will ensure it goes with many of your outfits, while the faux pearls add a delicate femininity to the party bag.

Shop Now

05

Superdown Sonia Crystal Bag

$71.22 at Revolve

This mini wristlet bag will be the shimmering cherry on top of your party season outfit. It has a zipper and magnetic button closure to keep your belongings stowed inside. Plus, it’s also available in champagne and black colourways, if silver isn’t your style.

Shop now

06

The Row ’90s Bag

$2,390 at SSENSE

Contrary to what you may immediately think of when you hear the words “party season bag”, a sleek, simple black bag is the perfect addition to any outfit for the silly season and beyond. This one from The Row is, of course, very chic and while it also has a luxury price tag to match, this supple leather bag will never go out of style.

Shop now

07

Simone Rocha Egg Embellished Clutch

$955 at Simone Rocha

While we’re not convinced you could fit your phone in this egg-shaped Simone Rocha bag, I think we can all agree that’s not the point. With a short leather wrist strap and long string of pearls as an added decorative piece, this oversized pearl will be a true conversation starter at your festive parties. It does fully open up also, so you can fit essentials like your credit card and lipstick inside.

Shop Now

08

STAUD Tommy Beaded Bag

$575 at Net-a-Porter

STAUD’s beaded Tommy bag is a signature of the brand, with a structured design and intricately beaded pattern that changes every season. This checkered pattern has added sequins and a long shoulder strap that makes it as interesting to look at as it is wearable.

Shop Now

09

NLA Collective Knot Bag

$404.65 at Revolve

A slinky satin accessory like this knot bag is a cute and casual way to dress up a casual outfit. Picture this bag paired with black denim jorts, a simple tank top and heeled thongs and tell us that isn’t the perfect outfit for summer sundowners.

Shop Now

10

Brie Leon Madera Bag

$159 at Store

There’s a tendency to lean into sequins and sparkles when choosing a bag to see you through the party season, but since it’s summer here in Australia, we’re also partial to embracing the laid-back energy of the season. This Brie Leon bag captures this vibe, with wooden beads and a compact size that fits only the summer essentials.

Shop Now

11

Weekend Max Mara, Small Satin Pasticcino Bag

$585.00 (usually $650.00) at Max Mara

Part of the Weekend Max Mara Holiday collection this blush pink clutch is large enough for a phone and a few beauty products while adding a dose of glamour and romance to any outfit. The clutch comes with a detachable silver chain strap, so it can be worn cross-body and dressed down with boyfriend jeans and heels or clutch-style with a classic LBD for Hepburn-esque flair.

Shop Now

Related article:

• Plan Your Party Look—The 2024 New Year’s Eve Weather Forecast Is In
• 11 Designer Sneaker Styles That Have Given Sambas A Run For Their Money In 2024
• 12 Zesty Summer Scents That Are Like A Breath Of Fresh Air On Hot Days 

The post 11 On-Trend Mini Handbags To See You Through Party Season appeared first on ELLE.

The precise anatomy of the on-trend bob often changes slightly with each new season, but one thing that holds steady is the freeing feeling that comes with a fresh crop. The latter is reason enough for the humble bob to be a perpetually trending haircut, and the variety that exists in selecting your perfect chin-skimming length is a big bonus.

In recent years, blunt, chin-skimming bobs have probably been the most popular style, thanks in large part to Hailey Bieber. We’ve also seen chunkier bobs inspired by chic European women rise significantly in popularity, thus giving us permission to embrace our natural hair texture and buck the pressure to embrace a sleek bob. 

As we near the end of the year, Sydney’s top hairstylists are noticing some refreshingly new bob styles emerge, and ahead, we share their favourites.

Micro Bob

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A post shared by Amy Julliette Lefévre (@lefevrediary)

A micro bob is considered any minimalist bob that sits higher than your chin, according to Jaye Edwards, the founder of Edwards & Co and Jaye Haircare. “This bold cut sits just above the jawline, creating a sharp and modern silhouette,” Edwards tells ELLE Australia. 

“To achieve this look, ask your hairstylist for a precision cut with clean, blunt ends that suit your face shape. Style it sleek with a flat iron for a polished look or use a texture spray to embrace soft, natural waves.” He recommends a spritz of O&M Desert Dry Texture Spray to finish with some soft grit.

Banging Bob

Gone are the days of a bob with a fringe evoking images of a five-year-old. “The Banging Bob combines the timeless bob with statement bangs, like a micro fringe for a bold vibe or curtain bangs for a softer feel,” explains Edwards. 

To ensure you leave the salon with a cut that suits your face shape, Edwards suggests asking your stylist for a tailored bob length that frames your face, with a fringe that suits your face shape and compliments your features. “I would style this look with the diffuser attachment of a hair dryer with a lightweight styling cream such as Style Guru from O&M,” he explains.

Layered Bob

For the past few years, bob trends have tended towards blunter silhouettes, but according to Michael Kelly, founder of Salon HER, that might be changing in 2025. “The layered bob is back, blending boldness with versatility,” Kelly tells ELLE Australia. “With soft, strategically placed layers inspired by Maya Hawke and Jenna Ortega’s effortless texture, this cut adds dimension and natural movement, making it perfect for clients craving a dynamic yet relaxed look.”

To achieve this style at home, Kelly suggests smoothing flyaways and adding softness to your strands with the Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame. “Blow-dry for volume or air-dry to highlight the natural flow of the layers for an undone, carefree finish,” adds Kelly.

Undone Bob

When you hear the word bob, you also probably think of words like sleek and polished, but one of 2025’s big bob trends veers in a different direction. “The undone bob is all about soft, natural movement with clean, blunt lines,” Kirby Lago, Kerasilk Ambassador and owner of Pelo By Lago salon, tells ELLE Australia. “It’s polished yet low-maintenance, perfect for anyone wanting a timeless yet modern look.” 

Lago recommends asking your stylist for a blunt cut that sits just below the jawline or at the cheekbone, and minimal layering for versatility. “Pair this bob with a centre part for an elongating effect or a deep side part for a dramatic twist,” she says.

There are a few ways to style this bob, and it will largely depend on your hair texture. Lago recommends using a flat iron (we love the GHD Platinum+ Hair Straightener) to create soft waves in the hair and finishing with a texturising spray, like Kerasilk Texturising Finish Spray, to add texture. The most effortless alternative is to also let your natural hair texture live and air dry after washing. 

Boxy Bob

The moment Lily Collins debuted her boxy bob, we knew it would be a big hair trend for the foreseeable, and it appears that Anthony Nader, founder of RAW salon, agrees. “A sharp, boxy bob gives the feeling of not only more thickness but also this blunt baseline that reflects a strong confidence,” he tells ELLE Australia.

“The haircut is all one length and there’s not a soft layer in sight,” Nader says. “Styling is super easy as it’s a hair shape that isn’t about volume and bounce at all. [That means] you can blow dry with a paddle brush for an extra clean surface or let air dry for a more relaxed, casual look.” He also suggests adding a lightweight serum for added sheen to the mid-lengths and ends and nothing else. 

Hollywood Glamour Bob

The bouncy blowout isn’t reserved for longer hairstyles and next year, we’ll increasingly see this technique applied to bobs. “This sophisticated bob is all about sleek volume, natural texture, and a high-shine finish,” says Lago. “Sitting just below the jawline, it strikes the perfect balance between modern minimalism and soft glamour. This cut is ideal for clients who want a refined yet wearable style with plenty of versatility.” 

To style this bob, Lago recommends applying a smoothing cream or lightweight serum to the hair before blow drying (I love the Virtue Damage Reverse Serum) with a round brush to help with volume and shine. “Use a curling iron like the GHD Soft Curl Tong to create subtle bends, then finish with a shine spray or serum for a luminous effect,” she says. “To really elevate the volume, use a velcro roller at the front while your hair cools after blow-drying.” 

The post The Bob Haircut Trends Sydney Stylists Predict Will Be Huge In 2025 appeared first on ELLE.

A couple of extra sweeteners include each order including a free limited edition mini signature bag, and Cyber Monday shoppers who spend over $150 will receive a free Flush Balm in the shade Mood.

What we’re extra proud of though, is the exclusive early access code that we managed to secure for you lucky ducks. The sale officially begins on the Merit Beauty website at 3pm AEDT on Monday 25 November, but when you use the code EAELLEAU, you’ll be able to access the sale from 9am AEDT the day before, on Sunday 24 November.

For anyone looking to dip their toe into the world of Merit this Black Friday and Cyber Monday, here are the products we suggest starting with.

01

Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara

$33.60 (usually $42) at Merit

One thing about me is, just about every single mascara I’ve ever used has ended up halfway down my face by lunchtime. That isn’t the case with this mascara, which is a tubing formula that doesn’t flake or smudge. It’s a good option for anyone who prefers a lengthened and lifted lash over a volumised one, though I can confirm that it can be built up to a slightly more dramatic lash when needed.

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02

Signature Lip

$33.60 (usually $42) at Merit

I can personally vouch for this lipstick, which promises to be a “comfortable colour that’s so lightweight, you’ll forget you’re wearing it”. Though the pigment looks intense, the texture of these lipsticks is buttery and smooth, which means you can tap and blend on a light wash of colour, or build it up to be a more opaque lip.

I’m currently loving the orange-red Cabo shade pictured above from The Satins collection, dabbed onto my lips and blended with my finger for an everyday colour. But I plan to pick up one of The Mattes in the shade Vermillion — a warm red — for a bold and festive look this holiday season.

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03

Flush Balm Cheek Colour

$38.40 (usually $48) at Merit

In a sea of ultra-pigmented cream blushes, the Merit Flush Balms offer a reprieve. The formula is firm (as opposed to soft, buttery, creamy, or liquid) but still glides over the cheek for an easily blendable wash of colour. There are nine shades to choose from, but I’m partial to the warmer shades like Persimmon (the warm orange-red shown above) and Rouge (a sheer red), which deliver a gently sunkissed effect, sans sun damage.

Apply directly to the cheek and blend with your fingers for a blush on the go, or use a dense blush brush if you prefer to not dip your hands into your products.

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04

The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

$48.80 (usually $61) at Merit

This foundation stick is about to become a staple for anyone who prefers to spend a mere few minutes on their makeup in the morning (or often finds themselves applying makeup during their morning commute). It’s a light-to-medium coverage complexion product that can be scribbled on and blended out in seconds.

It’s available in 30 shades and has a skin-like finish that makes it nearly impossible to mess up. The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick is also satisfyingly buildable, which means you can use this as your everyday foundation and add extra layers where you feel like you need a bit more coverage. For example, over areas of pigmentation, blemishes, and under the eyes.

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05

Solo Shadow Matte Eye Colour

$30.40 (usually $38) at Merit

These solo eyeshadows are a cream-to-powder product that dries down to provide a matte wash of colour on the eyelid. Though there are a few gorgeous statement colours in the range, I am a huge fan of the neutral shades. The main reason for this is, I find any makeup applied to my eyelids creases like crazy within minutes, and these eyeshadows are the closest to a crease-free formula that I’ve found.

I suggest picking up the shade closest to your skin tone and using your finger to blend over your entire lid when doing your makeup for subtle colour correction and to give the illusion of putting effort into your morning makeup routine.

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The post We Have Exclusive Early Access To Merit’s Black Friday Sale  appeared first on ELLE.

The program has been created in consultation with the community to ensure it reaches as many people as possible.

Representatives from local councils, women’s health services, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, as well as organisations representing LGBTQIA+ people, people experiencing poverty or homelessness, people with disabilities, multicultural Victorians, and young people have all been consulted. The Victorian government also says it engaged researchers to speak to people who may be likely to access these free menstrual products, to understand and better overcome the barriers to access.

Victoria’s statewide program follows a similar commitment in the ACT in June 2023, when the territory passed the Period Products and Facilities (Access) Bill, which stated that the Territory Government was required to provide “free period products at designated and accessible places”.

You can track down your closest vending machine via the Free Pads and Tampons website.

The post Free Pads And Tampons Will Soon Be Available Across Victoria appeared first on ELLE.

With each new trend comes an opportunity to ask yourself whether you may have found the style of ring you would like to wear for many years to come. Ahead, we look to the celebrities who got engaged this year to see how they have made enduring trends their own (you’ll notice more than a couple of oval-cut diamonds in the mix), or how they’ve creatively bucked the trends to create a unique ring to celebrate their love.

From antique-cut diamonds to multi-stone designs, we hope the celebrity engagement rings below provide some inspiration for your own engagement ring.

Lady Gaga

Oval Diamond on a Pavé Platinum Band

It became clear that Lady Gaga was engaged back in July when she introduced Michael Polansky to French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal as her fiancé at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Finally, in September, we also got a good look at her engagement ring, which stars an impressive oval-cut diamond set on a platinum band featuring pavé diamonds. Experts have guessed that the centre stone is an impressive eight-carats.

Halsey

Non-Diamond Centre Stone

In 2024, engagement rings don’t need to feature a diamond. In fact, a coloured stone is a beautiful way to show off your personal style through your sentimental piece of jewellery. Halsey’s engagement ring is further proof of this fact, with a green centre stone that’s flanked by what appear to be diamonds, all set on a thin yellow gold band.

Ashanti

Platinum Pavé Band

When we heard that Ashanti and Nelly were engaged and pregnant, it warmed our cold little Y2K-loving hearts. Her ring appears to defy all rules of physics, with a huge oval-cut centre stone set on an impossibly thin pavé diamond band. TikTok sleuths have guessed that her centre diamond is between seven and 10 carats, and also features a hidden halo underneath the diamond.

Emma Roberts

Chunky Gold Band

This year has seen many people move towards chunkier gold bands for their engagement ring and that’s even true for Emma Roberts. Experts have guessed that her solitaire diamond is likely around the 3.5-carat mark, but we particularly love the detailing on her gold band and thin, white gold or platinum bezel setting, which gives the illusion of a floating stone.

Saoirse Monica-Jackson

Three-Stone Ring

Derry Girls‘ Saoirse Monica-Jackson’s engagement ring is the epitome of modern bridal, with a three-stone getting that features a round centre stone flanked by a triangular stone on either side. The classic gold band is contrasted with white gold or platinum prongs, to allow the stones to take centre stage in this gorgeous setting.

Phoebe Dynevor

Bezel Set Diamonds

When we think of Phoebe Dynevor, we also think of words like elegant and effortless — so it’s hardly a surprise that those are the exact descriptors we’d use for her engagement ring, too. She quietly debuted the ring at the 2024 Met Gala, but we got a good look at it when she attended the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2025 in Barcelona later that same month. Her ring appears to be a minimalist, bezel-set design, with a single oval-cut diamond, and it has proven once again that the oval-cut diamond will never go out of style.

Phoebe Tonkin

In case you need further proof that the oval-cut, bezel setting was a big celebrity engagement ring trend for 2024, we think this gorgeous photo of Phoebe Tonkin will put that desire to rest. She announced her engagement in October, with a series of sweet photos captioned “film back from the summer of love”. The bezel setting adds balance to the thin gold band, and no doubt adds some much-needed security around that dazzling centre stone.

Nina Dobrev

Antique-Cut Diamonds

We’ll always have a soft spot for vintage and vintage-style diamonds. Nina Dobrev’s engagement ring features a large centre diamond, estimated to be around the five-carat mark. The larger faceting and “spready” style has TikTok sleuths speculating that this elongated cushion cut diamond may be an old mine cut diamond, which is a style of diamond that was most common during the early 18th century to late 19th century.

The post The Celebrity Engagement Ring Trends That Dazzled Us In 2024 appeared first on ELLE.

The spot in question is Clarins’ new (and first) Australian boutique in the iconic Queen Victoria Building in Sydney’s CBD. Opening its doors in late October, the new boutique is everything you would expect from the heritage French skincare brand. For 70 years, Clarins has been a source of elegant skincare products like the Double Serum, one of our go-to anti-ageing serums.

The boutique has been designed to give Sydneysiders (or visitors to Sydney, of course) a taste of Clarins’ holistic beauty ethos, and a good pamper. The boutique is a tribute to Clarins’ founder, Jacques Courtin-Clarins, whose legacy of personalised care continues to be the driving force behind the iconic beauty brand.

The store has Beauty Consultants on hand to help you find a skincare routine that suits your specific needs, plus, there’s a private Skin Atelier room, where you can lie down and enjoy a facial.

To celebrate the opening of the store, Clarins is offering free 20-minute express facials, which is the perfect excuse to sneak away from your desk in the middle of the day and return easily within the hour. Just be sure to book your appointment via this link before heading in.

The post There’s A New Spot For Lunchtime Express Facials In Sydney’s CBD appeared first on ELLE.

The Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2024

01

Charlotte’s Beauty Treasure Chest Of Love

$320 at Charlotte Tilbury

There’s no denying that the Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar unveiling is almost an event in itself and this year is no different. We now have our first look at the 2024 calendar, which for $320 is packed full of all your CT faves.

Sign up now to be notified when it drops (because if you don’t get in first, you will miss out!)

Also available at:

• $336 at Cult Beauty
• $320 at Mecca

Shop Now

02

Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar

$595 at Liberty London

Worth nearly $2600 Australian dollars, Liberty’s long-awaited lineup of beauty products is back and better than ever before. This year, get your hands on 28 of the brand’s must-have beauty buys, including brands like Votary, Surratt, Liberty and Byredo.

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03

Benefit Cosmetics Holiday Advent Calendar

$299 at Adore Beauty

Calling all Benefit girlies, with 24 surprises (some full and others mini), this calendar is a brilliant way to make sure your brows are always on fleek, while also getting to try out the brand’s latest skincare launches. There are A LOT of holy grail favourites here too if you need to restock.

Also available at:

• $299 at Myer

Shop Now

04

Juliette Has a Gun Not An Advent Calendar Set

$215 at Sephora

Aptly named, this Christmas gift set will only see you counting down for six festive days, but they’ll be best smelling days you’ve had all year. Featuring a mini perfume of the brand’s iconic scent, candle, hair & body mist, body lotion, hand cream and soap you’ll have all bases covered in a heavenly fragrance.

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05

MAC Cosmetics 24K Holiday Advent Calendar

$390 at MAC Cosmetics

MAC’s annual advent calendar is great value, with 24 full-sized and mini products to enjoy throughout the month of December (and beyond). This year’s calendar includes four full-sized lipsticks (plus one mini), a mini Fix+ setting spray, four individual eyeshadows, a Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick, plus liquid lips, mascara, brow gel and more.

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06

Dr. Barbara Sturm Advent Calendar 2024

$891 at Cult Beauty

If you gifted this to a skincare lover, they would probably let out a real-life gasp. This calendar has 25 products, which means you’ll also unwrap a little present on Christmas Day (if you can wait that long), and includes everything from glow drops to lip balm, plus serums, toners, and face creams. Essentially, it allows you to try the range before committing to a purchase. There is also a five-product calendar available for $330.

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07

Dior Le 30 Montaigne Advent Calendar

$1,050 at Dior

The packaging of the Dior advent calendar is your first hint at how luxurious this one truly is. It’s been designed to recreate the facade of the House of Dior’s historic boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne, with the doors opening to reveal 24 drawers that hold a little beauty treasure. The products draw from four of the House’s key categories — skincare, makeup (including nail care), fragrance, and home — and the calendar doubles as a storage case for once you’ve unwrapped each present.

Harrods also stocks a four-product calendar for $172, if you’d like to dip into the world of Dior this holiday season without committing to the larger calendar.

Also available at:

• $806 from Harrods

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08

Twelve Days Of Go-To

$125 (usually $201) at Go-To

Go-To releases a playful advent calendar each year, which is appropriate for a brand that is playful to its peach-hued core. This year, you’ll receive 12 products, including the bestsellers like Face Hero, as well as a limited edition Cherry Lips and claw clip, plus a pair of tweezers and Alemais scrunchie. Honestly, this is a great deal for Go-To lovers, and it’s currently on sale.

Also available at:

• $145 from Mecca

Shop Now

09

Jo Malone London Advent Calendar

$712.80 at Cult Beauty

This 24-day advent calendar is for anyone who wants to find a signature scent and is committed to it being a Jo Malone one. It includes 24 fragrances, candles, and a couple of body care products like hand and body cream. For some of the more iconic scents (like Wood Sage and Sea Salt, a personal favourite of ours), you’ll receive both the cologne and candle version, so you and your home can smell delicious.

Also available at:

• $795 from David Jones
• $795 from Myer

Shop Now

10

YSL Beauty Advent Calendar

$642 at YSL Beauty

The YSL Beauty advent calendar is a luxurious treat that keeps on giving. It includes 24 products (a combination of mini and full-sized), from fragrances to lipsticks, mascara, and skincare. This calendar also includes a few TikTok viral products like Black Opium Eau de Parfum and the YSL Loveshine in N°150 Nude Lingerie.

Also available at:

• $540 from Selfridges

Shop Now

11

Kiehl’s Limited Edition Advent Calendar

$194 at Kiehl’s

The annual Kiehl’s advent calendar is always a treat, with 24 mostly mini (there are a could of full-sized products) products that are among some of our favourites. Stand out products include the “Ultra” range, which includes a cleanser, moisturiser, and toner (all sensitive skin-approved products) and the Midnight Recovery Concentrate. The calendar itself is emblazoned with art created by Brooklyn-based artist duo Heidi Chisholm and Richard Hart of Public/Official.

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12

Maison Margiela Replica Advent Calendar

$250 at Mecca

Maison Margiela’s Replica is renowned for capturing memories through scents, with each scent evoking the emotions you may feel in hyper-specific scenarios. The names speak for themselves, such as By The Fireplace (a universal favourite), Jazz Club, Lazy Sunday Morning, and Beach Walk. This calendar delivers a week of treats, with mini candles, fragrances, plus two body care products as well. The good news is, that a little goes a long way with these scents, so a mini fragrance is more generous than you’d think at first glance. At $250, this advent calendar is a beautiful way to try a few before you invest.

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13

Diptyque Advent Calendar 2024

$764 at Mecca

Diptyque consistently creates one of the most beautiful advent calendars each year. For 2024, the chest unfurls to reveal 25 drawers. Each holds a product from the fragrance brand, with 10 candles, a solid perfume, three fragrances, a room spray, an ornament and a few body care products as well. We are suckers for the candles, and plan to dot them all over our apartment throughout the holiday season.

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14

David Jones 24 Days Of Beauty Advent Calendar

$329 at David Jones

If you love picking up samples as you wander around the beauty department in your local David Jones, this advent calendar basically allows you to do that in the comfort of your own home. It includes products from some of the retailer’s most popular brands (and some of our personal favourites), such as: Armani Beauty, Rationale, MAC, La Mer, Sisley Paris, the list goes on.

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15

Laneige Manifest Glow: Best of Laneige Set

$235 at Sephora

If “finally achieve juicy, plump skin” is on your list of 2025 New Year’s resolutions, may we suggest you pick up the Laneige advent calendar and spend December hydrating your skin? This set is packed with best-sellers from the viral skincare brand, with two sleeping lip masks (a beauty editor favourite), plus a moisturiser, eye cream, and overnight mask for your face (plus more!).

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16

Augustinus Bader 12 Days Of Bader

$977.71 at Revolve

Augustinus Bader is one of the most innovative and efficacious skincare brands in the world (no, really), so it’s a shame that it’s also extremely expensive. Though the price tag on this advent calendar is still hefty, each mini product will give you a taste of how powerful these products are, and we have a feeling you’ll see results pretty quickly. Our only caution is that once you try Augustinus Bader, it is very hard to use anything else — don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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17

Giorgio Armani, Armani Beauty 2024 Holiday Advent Calendar

$655 at Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani is a byword for luxury in beauty and fashion, so the 2024 advent calendar is always hotly anticipated. This year’s lives up to the hype with eight full-sized products, including the perfect for-holiday Giorgio Armani shimmering Eye Tints and Prisma Glass lipglosses and fifteen minis. With fragrance, makeup, and skincare covered, this is a must-not-miss limited edition holiday buy.

Available at:

• $655.00 from David Jones

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18

Revolution Beauty, Revolution Advent Calendar 2024

$72 ($96) Revolution

With everything you need to create a bomb New Year’s Eve Beauty look, the Revolution Beauty Advent Calendar is a treat for the makeup lover in your life.

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19

L’Occitane, Classic Beauty Advent Calendar

$125 at David Jones

For lovers of luxurious bath and body products, L’Occitane is a must-not-miss during the advent calendar season. It includes minis of iconic shower products like the Almond Shower Oil with newer additions like the Cherry Blossom Shimmering Body Lotion. You’ll also find minis from the brand’s luxe Immortelle skincare range, including face cream. serum, cleanser and a gentle makeup remover glove – perfect for travel.

Available at:

• $125.00 from L’Occitane

Shop Now

20

Lancôme, Holiday Advent Calendar

$364 at The Iconic

A beautiful object under the tree, the Lancôme advent calendar is also full of beautiful things. Twenty-four boxes contain five full-sized beauty items (including the beauty editor beloved Hypnôse Mascara) and 19 travel-sized products across fragrance, skincare and makeup.

Available at:

• $364.00 from Adore Beauty

Shop Now

21

Bobbi Brown, Dazzle & Glow 12-Day Advent Calendar

$300 at Bobbi Brown

The Bobbi Brown advent calendar is a 12-day curated edit of the brand’s classic beauty and skincare products. From a handy travel size of the iconic Vitamin Enriched Face Base primer to their Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick and Highlighting Powder, you’ll have everything you need to create a full beauty look (and to remove with minis of the Bobbi Brown Makeup Remover and Cleansing Oil).

Shop Now

22

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Countdown Calendar

$1,708 Mecca

Maison Francis Kurkdjian is a cult Parisienne perfume house responsible for the gourmand you’ve seen all over TikTok, Baccarat Rouge. But this brand has so much more to offer, and you’ll discover plenty of it in this generous luxury advent calendar. Small but mighty, its compartments pop out to reveal an abundance of luxury gems. You’ll find a full-size of the Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait Perfume and the Oud Satin Mood shimmering body oil (together worth $971), along with candle trios, deluxe sample sizes of other scents from the brand and body oils. Truly a treasure trove.

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23

La Mer, The La Mer Wonder Express Advent Calendar

$1,125 at David Jones

La Mer is one of the best-loved luxury skincare brands in the world — and like Augustinus Bader, it’s one of the priciest. If you’ve been curious about the range loved by A-listers and beauty editors equally (we don’t blame you), this advent calendar contains 12 of the brand’s best-loved skincare products so you can experience the complete ritual before investing.

Available at:

• $1,125 from La Mer

Shop Now

24

Carolina Herrera, Deluxe Advent Calendar

$180 David Jones

A future collectible fragrance fans will love this collection of Carolina Herrera’s iconic pop-art fragrance bottles in miniature form. ‘Good Girl’ is Herrera’s most famous scent, an almond, cocoa and coffee gourmand and can be found here in three interpretations alongside a host of other scents. The set also includes two charm-style lipsticks. Attach to your bag and go.

Available at:

• $180.00 from Myer

Shop Now

25

Penhaligon’s, Baker’s Box of Delights Christmas Advent Calendar

$890 at Myer

Packaged up like a box of baker’s treats, this is the most festive advent set we’ve found. The English know Christmas, and this luxe advent calendar from British perfume house Penhaligon’s includes twenty-four scented treats for every day of the year. From luxe perfumes to soaps, lotions and candles this will delight any fragrance lover.

Shop Now

26

Mecca Max, Minis To The Max 12-Piece Beauty Advent Calendar

$72 at Mecca

This tight edit of on-the-go beauty products has you covered for any beauty emergency. The handbag-friendly minis will have you (or your gift recipient) covered for Christmas party touchups.

Shop Now

27

Naked Sundays, 12 Days of Glow Advent Calendar

$199 (usually $320) at Naked Sundays

Discover Naked Sundays best-selling sunscreens and SPF-infused beauty products this summer with this 12-piece set from the Australian suncare brand.

Shop Now

28

OPI X Wicked Nail Lacquer 12-Piece Advent Calendar

$74.95 at Myer

Do you have a theatre kid in your life who loves experimenting with new manicures? The OPI x Wicked Advent Calendar is the best gift you can give with 12 mini nail polishes that will match every mood.

Available at:

• $74.95 from David Jones
• $74.95 from Adore Beauty
• $74.95 from The Iconic

Shop Now

29

NYX, Professional Makeup Holiday Advent Calendar

$250 at Adore Beauty

NYX are known for their collaborations, and this one has us tickled: a Home Alone collection with 20th Century Studios. While you won’t find booby traps, you will find a range of lip products (we love their new “Fat Oils”) and cream and powder shadows.

Shop Now

30

Clarins, 24 Day Advent Calendar

$200 at David Jones

One of the most comprehensive advent calendars on the market, this box of festive cheer from Clarins contains five face, body, and makeup routines (fifteen products) in one handy set. From the famous Beauty Flash Balm and SOS Primer to the Bust Body Extra Life Gel there’s a world to explore here.

Available at:

• $200.00 from Myer

Shop Now

What Is The Most Popular Beauty Advent Calendar?

Every year, we see beauty advent calendars drop from not only singular brands but retailers and online sites, too. But, which is the most popular beauty advent calendar of them all? 

Well, a lot of that comes down to personal preference and loyalty to beauty brands but previous top sellers (reaching out of stock status within weeks or days) include Charlotte Tilbury and Go-To Skincare.

Are Beauty Advent Calendars Worth The Money?

If you’re looking at the value of a beauty advent calendar, it’s easy to argue they’re worth the money. In most cases, beauty advent calendars have a recommended retail value much higher than their actual price tag, which is why they’re so popular. They’re also a great way to stock up on your favourite brand or trial new products from a label you love.

Looking to save money on beauty? Check out our coupon codes for Charlotte Tilbury, Clinique and more.

Related article:

• Sip Your Way To The Festive Season With These Boozy Advent Calendars
• The Best Beauty Advent Calendars To Snap Up From Sephora
• These Jewellery Advent Calendars Are Perfect For Ear Stacking

The post Beauty Advent Calendars Are Already Dropping For 2024 appeared first on ELLE.

That’s exactly why I decided to forego flowers (the venue was dark anyway) except for a small bouquet and lapel flowers for my husband and father. I also decided to buy a secondhand dress that I could pick up within the week and do only minor alterations on.

I also decided to skip hiring a hairstylist, and it’s this decision that raised the most eyebrows from friends. In the weeks leading up to my wedding, I would tell everyone that I had decided to do my own wedding hair just to see their reaction, hoping that I’d receive reassurance. Many people agreed that I do my hair nicely day to day (cheers, friends), but they also often questioned whether I would have the chops to make the hairstyle last all day long. It was a fair question.

But I knew I didn’t want my hair to look overly “done” anyway, and I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve left a salon and been happy with how it looks. More often, I leave feeling like my hair is too polished and I don’t feel like myself. Add to this that a loosely curled hairstyle is my go-to, and I figured that adapting it for a half-up style wouldn’t be too difficult to master.

The good news is, it all worked out in the end, and I received plenty of compliments on my hair throughout the day, and a satisfying amount of shock when I told people I did it myself. Along the way, I also learned a few valuable lessons, and if you’re considering doing your own hair for your wedding, keep reading because I’m sharing them all below.

First, Here’s What My Bridal Hair Looked Like

Tip 1: Watch Plenty Of Videos

It’s 2024, so of course, the first place I headed when I decided to do my own bridal hair was TikTok and Instagram. To be honest, it was a bit hit or miss. But what I was able to glean from the plethora of half-up bridal hairstyles demonstrated on the apps was that it was totally possible to create a simple half-up style at home.

I found this video particularly helpful, as I hadn’t considered creating a smaller ponytail as an anchor point for my half-up style. It ended up being the most critical step in ensuring that my ponytail (and therefore, my veil) was placed at the right height, and because I couldn’t see the back of my head very well while I worked, the ponytail held everything in place while I worked.

Tip 2: Now Is Not The Time For Getting Creative With Products

If you’re anything like me, you also may have the urge to buy all new products ahead of your big day, in the hopes that new equals better. I urge you to resist this urge. In the same way that trying new facial treatments or skincare in the lead-up to your wedding is a risky (and, as far as I’m concerned, prohibited) move, switching up your haircare routine in the week of your wedding is also not advised.

That means, I washed my hair the night before because I know my hair behaves better the next day. If you know your hair looks greasy on day two, then of course, stick to what you know and wash your hair the morning of your wedding. I used my usual tried and true Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner, $96, followed by the Ouai Leave In Conditioner, $55. When blow drying with my trusty Dyson Airwrap, $721, I also layered my usual heat protectant and frizz-fighting products.

I also used the only hairspray that holds my hair in place — the Got2B Hair Spray Glued Blasting Freeze Hairspray, $17 — though admittedly, I sprayed a little more liberally than I usually would. The moral of the story? Stick to what you know.

Tip 3: Don’t Skip Hair Prep

Hair prep will look different for everyone, whether it’s heading to the salon for specific treatments or sticking to your usual routine to ensure your hair is in the best possible shape for the big day. I was getting married at the end of September, so my biggest concern was that Sydney’s humidity would have started to rear her moist head by this time of year. That’s why I headed to Salon Her for a keratin treatment two weeks before my wedding.

In the end, sideways rain and gale-force winds were my most diabolical saboteurs, but the keratin treatment still served her purpose. That is, keeping frizz and flyaways at bay.

Tip 4: Take Your Time

I allowed much more time than I needed to do my hair on the day because the last thing I needed was to freak out halfway through the process. I was getting ready at home with my groom, so I didn’t have my mum, sisters, or a friend there as a second set of eyes, and let’s be honest, Steve had no idea what he was looking at.

To stay calm, I put my favourite album on (Harry Styles’ Fine Line, obviously) and then told myself multiple times to calm down. Every time I felt like I was starting to speed up or get stressed, I’d stop, breathe, and remind myself that I had all the time in the world. This is the best tip I can give you — don’t rush.

This was also important when approaching every single aspect of doing my hair. Though I had blowdried my hair the night before, I’m a rough sleeper, so I was starting from scratch on my wedding day. I started by sectioning my hair and using my trusty GHD Classic Curl Tong, $280, to curl every section of hair on my head. I took my time here, holding each piece of hair around the tong for a few seconds longer than I usually would, in the hope that the curl would last longer (it did). I then sprayed each layer of fresh curls with hairspray. Once my hair had fully cooled (I had to walk away from the mirror), I combed through the curls and touched up any that had fallen.

Tip 5: Place Your Ponytail Higher Than You Think

In the weeks leading up to my wedding, I visited my usual hairstylist two times, once for the aforementioned keratin treatment and once for a top-up of my highlights. It was a brilliant opportunity to ask them to share any tips for my specific bridal hairstyle. Jake’s top tip? To place my ponytail higher than I thought it needed to be.

Though this may sound like a small and insignificant tip, it was invaluable. In fact, one of my favourite elements of my hairstyle was how lifted my hair and face looked throughout the day, which I credit to anchoring my half-up style to the crown of my head. I used a mini rubber hair tie to hold the hair around my crown in a ponytail, and then twisted back sections of hair to cover the hair tie and secured those with regular old bobby pins.

This TikTok video was extremely helpful, though I used the mini hair ties instead of bobby pins for the initial half-up placement as it felt easier.

Tip 6: Practice, But Not Too Much

Depending on your personality, there is such a thing as over-preparing. For me, I was more scared of doing my hair perfectly in the practice runs and then botching it on the day. I practised my hair the night before and thought “that’ll do it!”, because I knew over-preparing would send me into a hellish spiral or experimentation. For example, on my second attempt, I slid in a hair accessory and then immediately told myself to get a grip and took it out, in favour of keeping it as simple as possible. If you’re the type of person who will be calmed through multiple trials, I suggest doing that instead.

The practice runs will also help you understand whether you should throw in the towel and hire a hairstylist. As I said to my now-husband while doing my hair, I understood halfway through that getting a hairstylist wouldn’t necessarily have made my hair look better, but it would have alleviated stress on my wedding day, and in hindsight, that might have been a good trade.

That said, I was proud of the result and wouldn’t want my hair to look any other way. I was 100% happy with it, and if you want to do your own hair for your wedding, then I’d say that’s a ringing endorsement.

The post I Did My Own Bridal Hair & This Is Everything I Learned In The Process appeared first on ELLE.

One detail that often also requires a 12-month lead-up is securing the wedding dress of your dreams. This is especially true if you’re opting for a custom or semi-custom gown, to allow time for fittings and alterations. But in 2024, many modern brides are bucking the trend and turning back to the racks to find their dream dress. Gone are the days of being limited to simple designs when deciding to shop off the rack, with luxury bridal designers like Danielle Frankel, Alex Perry, and Halfpenny London all offering “off-the-rack” options from their collections.

To help you find a low-fuss dress that still feels as special as you deserve, we have scoured the Internet for the very best off-the-rack wedding dresses you can shop in 2024.

The Best Off-The-Rack Wedding Gowns To Shop In 2024

01

Danielle Frankel Stella Gown

$ 6,898 at Net-A-Porter

Danielle Frankel is the perfect designer for people who prefer a classic, clean, and timeless design. Frankel’s gowns may look simple, but the magic is in the detailing, for example, this dress’ delicate cowl neck, featherlight train, and backless design accented with ties. Frankel’s New York Studio is undeniably chic, and if you’re looking for a custom design experience (and have the budget to fly to New York City for an appointment), this is one we recommend. But if you’d prefer to shop off the rack and have your dress within weeks, the collections on Net-A-Porter and Mytheresa are a great place to look.

Sizes: US0 – US8 | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 51% silk, 49% wool; lining: 100% polyester

Key features:

• Mid-weight, non-stretch fabric
• Train hem
• Open back

Available at:

• $6,898 from Net-a-Porter

Shop now

02

Aje Violette Bubble Hem Maxi Dress

$695 at Aje

Summer weddings aren’t really the time for voluminous layers of tulle (unless you’re adept at managing the heat), so opting for a modern cotton gown is a brilliant option. Beach and outdoor or afternoon weddings are particularly well-suited to a 100% cotton dress like this one from Aje. We also adore the asymmetric bubble hem (not only because it’s the optimum shape for airflow), and the ruched bodice is a universally flattering silhouette,

Sizes: AU4 – AU 18 | Colours: Ivory, deep magenta, pastel pink, ivory/black | Materials: 100% cotton

Key features:

• Straight, strapless neckline
• Ruched, structured bodice
• Draped, asymmetric bubble hem

Available at:

• $695 from Aje

Shop now

03

Shona Joy Stratus Lace High Neck Maxi Dress

$660 at Shona Joy

Shona Joy is a reliable Australian label to turn your eye to for bridal and bridesmaid gowns. The selection is vast and affordable for bridal gowns, with long and slim-fit designs as well as more structured and mini gowns. This gown by Shona Joy falls at a great price, and the delicate lace details add a vintage feel to this modern silhouette.

Sizes: AU4 – AU18 | Colours: Ivory, black | Materials: 62% Viscose 38% Lenzing Ecovero Viscose

Key features:

• Silk-feel fabric
• Sheer lace panelling
• Button closure at the centre back

Available at:

• $660 from Shona Joy

Shop Now

04

Van Der Kooij Hettie Silk Gown

$5,000 at Van Der Kooij

Van Der Kooij is one label that’s really nailing playful bridal in 2024. The Hettie Silk Gown is one of the brand’s signature styles, with a curved strapless bodice and voluminous skirt offering subtle drama for the modern bride’s big day. The tulip-shaped skirt is particularly special and keeps its shape thanks to internal tiered layers of tulle. We also dare you to opt for the ice green colourway if you want to be extra playful with your bridal look — it would also make a beautiful reception dress.

Sizes: AU 5 – 12 | Colours: White, Ivory, Champagne, Ice Green | Materials: 100% silk dupion; lining: 100% silk and tulle

Key features:

• Tulip pleats all around the skirt
• Internal tiered layers of tulle for structure
• Long-line darts on the bodice
• 100% silk fabrication

Available at:

• $5,000 from Van Der Kooij

Shop Now

05

Retrofete Nadine Bow Mini Dress

$1,038 at Net-A-Porter

This flirty mini dress from Retrofete is ideal as a party dress for your reception, or a fun option for a less formal wedding. The mini hemline is balanced by a high neck, and the cut-out sides are embellished with sparkling bow accents.

Sizes: XXS – XL | Colours: White | Materials: 76% acetate, 24% polyester

Key Features:

• White satin fabrication
• Mid-weight, non-stretchy fabric
• Concealed hook and zip closure at back

Available at:

• $1,038 from Net-A-Porter

Shop Now

06

Alex Perry Elyse Strapless Mini Dress

$3,244 at Net-A-Porter

Alex Perry knows his way around a bridal gown. This mini dress is made from 100% silk-faille with a slightly iridescent sheen that adds a bit of magic to this simple wedding gown. The concealed inner corset creates a form-fitting and flattering silhouette, while the wraparound cuff at the neckline adds polish, plus, the voluminous skirt adds just the right amount of drama for a modern bride.

Sizes: AU4 – AU18 | Colours: White | Materials: 100% silk

Key Features:

• White silk-faille fabrication
• Button and concealed zip fastenings
• Wraparound cuff neckline

Available at:

• $3,244 from Net-A-Porter

Shop Now

07

Halfpenny London Mikado Midi Dress

$3,998 at Net-A-Porter

Halfpenny London is a go-to for brides who want to lean all the way into classically feminine silhouettes for their big day. This midi gown is a case in point for this, with an elegant strapless neckline, bustier, and circle skirt that we just know Audrey Hepburn would love.

Sizes: AU8 – AU16 | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 100% polyester

Key Features:

• Strapless neckline
• Internal bodice for added support
• Fits true-to-size

Available at:

• $3,998 from Net-A-Porter

Shop Now

08

Toteme Layered Lace Dress

$3,490 at Farfetch

If you’re looking for a dress that provides a subtle vibe shift from day to night, this layered Toteme dress is worth your time. The floor-skimming gown is undeniably chic, with a silk-feel strapless base layer and intricate diamond-lace dress overlaid. This is the perfect dress for a relaxed or boho-loving bride.

Sizes: XXS – L | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 84% viscose, 16% elastane; lining: 96% viscose, 4% elastane

Key Features:

• Stretchy, layered design
• Detachable lace layer
• Keyhole detail at back
• Base layer has a silicone strip and zipper closure

Available at:

• $3,490 from Farfetch

Shop Now

09

Maggie Marilyn Get Em Girl Dress

$2,000 at Maggie Marilyn

This floor-skimming gown from New Zealand designer Maggie Marilyn is the epitome of effortless bridal. The subtle shoulder pads add structure to the column shape, while a detachable ruffle belt adds movement and allows you to cinch the waist. This is one wedding gown that you’ll actually wear again (and again).

Sizes: AU6 – AU20 | Colours: Ivory, navy, chocolate, black | Materials: 100% silk; lining: 100% viscose

Key Features:

• Subtle shoulder pads
• Detachable belt with ruffle detail
• Fits true-to-size (size down for a closer fit)

Available at:

• $2,000 from Maggie Marilyn

Shop Now

10

Rotate Embellished Satin Corset Dress

$635 at Mytheresa

A classic boned bodice with a flowing skirt is a timeless and feminine silhouette for a bridal look. This gown from Rotate delivers both, and at a price point that hopefully won’t break the bank.

Sizes: AU4 – AU18 | Colours: Erget | Materials: 100% polyester; lining: 97% viscose, 3% elastane

Key Features:

• Bustier bodice for support
• Draped maxi skirt
• Machine washable

Available at:

• $635 from Mytheresa

Shop Now

11

Rachel Gilbert Ava Gown

$2,299 at Rachel Gilbert

Rachel Gilbert creates bridal looks for every wedding-related event on the calendar, from the engagement party, to the hen’s, the ceremony (there’s even a civil ceremony-specific category), and the reception. This gown is perfect for the ceremony and reception, with an elegant high neck and floor-skimming length, plus hand-beaded detailing — from the blouson-style bodice to the skirt’s hemline.

Sizes: AU6 – AU 18 | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 100% nylon tulle, hand beaded

Key Features:

• Hand beaded detailing
• Flow-length silhouette

Available at:

• $2,299 from Rachel Gilbert

Shop Now

12

Safiyaa Crepe Wedding Dress

$2,690 at Mytheresa

This column dress from Safiyaa is an elegant, classic gown for the minimalist bride. Made from a heavy crepe fabric, you will feel fully supported, thanks to the delicately structured bodice and tulip-like sleeves.

Sizes: AU6 – AU20 | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 92% polyester, 8% elastane; lining: 100% silk

Key Features:

• Heavy crepe fabrication
• Square neck detail

Available at:

• $2,690 from Mytheresa
• $ from [Store name]
• $ from [Store name]

Shop Now

13

L’IDÉE WOMAN Fantasia Gown

$529 at L’IDÉE WOMAN

If you’re looking for an affordable wedding gown that doesn’t compromise on comfort, this gown will certainly pique your interest. The simple design is perfect for a summer or destination wedding, and we can imagine you gliding down a sandy aisle on the beach as this dress floats around your legs.

Sizes: AU6 – AU16 | Colours: Ivory | Materials: 100% high-grade pleated polyester.

Key Features:

• Midi length
• Elasticated band
• Length: 105cm on a size 8 gown

Shop Now

What does ‘off-the-rack’ mean in a wedding dress?

An “off the rack” dress refers to any dress that is available to ship immediately after purchase. They are different from custom wedding gowns, which often require multiple fittings and result in a dress that is made to your precise measurements. Off-the-rack dresses are also different from made-to-order gowns, which require some lead time after purchase (this varies between designers).

Traditionally speaking, an off-the-rack dress was literally a dress that you would find in a brick-and-mortar store (i.e. on a rack) and take home on the spot, but these days, it also refers to any gown bought online for immediate delivery.

Are off-the-rack dresses cheaper?

Not necessarily. Traditionally, off-the-rack wedding dresses would have been considered to be cheaper, and that is still the case for many labels, which may offer ready-to-wear and custom options under the one brand. But in 2024, many bridal designers will also release exclusive collections with retailers like Net-A-Porter, Mytheresa, and SSENSE, that are priced similarly to their made-to-order gowns. In short, it depends on the designer and which dress you select from their collection.

Related article:

• The Australian ‘It Girl’ Brands To Shop For Modern Bridal Wear
• The Shotgun Wedding Is Making A Comeback
• The Best Instagram Accounts To Follow For Modern Wedding Inspiration

The post The Best Off-The-Rack Wedding Dresses To Shop In 2024 appeared first on ELLE.

Needless to say, when Victoria’s Secret announced its fashion show would be returning in 2024, people were puzzled. Questions immediately popped up online about whether there is a place for the fashion show at all, particularly when brands like Rihanna’s Savage Fenty have proven that a more fun, inclusive, and visually stunning version of a blockbuster lingerie show is possible.

But watching Gigi Hadid emerge from underneath the stage was undoubtedly nostalgic, and watching Tyra Banks close out the show transported us back in time, in the best possible way. “Even now, as I prepare to attend the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show as a guest, I get butterflies,” writes Gabriella Karefa-Johnson for ELLE US. “Because I know that when I see Banks’s first walk on the runway live, I’ll be transported back to 2003… Life will be good.”

This year’s show felt like a nostalgic fever dream, and ahead, we break down some of the most talked-about moments.

Gigi Hadid Opened The Show

Gigi Hadid emerged from underneath the stage to a haunting cover of INXS’s iconic song, “Never Tear Us Apart”. She wore an all-pink VS set with stilettos that snaked up her calves, plus wings that expanded and contracted as she moved down the runway. Her sister and fellow supermodel, Bella Hadid also walked in the show, wearing an all-red ensemble.

Lisa, Cher, And Tyla Steal The Show

The music acts are always a big drawcard for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and this year, we were impressed. Lisa, and Tyla performed their trending songs, while Cher turned back time by performing a medley of her most iconic songs.

Veteran Angels Return

Countless former Victoria’s Secret Angels made a return to the runway today. Familiar faces like Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Irina Shayk, Behati Prinsloo, Joan Smalls, Candice Swanepoel, and Barbara Palvin Sprouse all walked in multiple looks throughout the show, adding a thorough dose of nostalgia to the show.

Modern Icons Walk The Runway

Modern fashion icons like Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser also made their Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show debut in 2024, along with fellow newcomers, Anok Yai, Alex Consani, Devyn Faith Garcia, He Cong, and Jill Kortleve.

Kate Moss Made Her Victoria’s Secret Debut

Iconic ’90s supermodel Kate Moss made her Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show debut in 2024, following closely behind her daughter Lila Moss, who also walked the show. She wore a black lace dress and coordinated lingerie set underneath, and feathered wings.

Tyra Banks Closes The Show

There are few Victoria’s Secret angels more iconic than Tyra Banks, so it stands to reason that she would close out the show this year. She wore black tights and bustier with a long-sleeved black and silver cape that she worked at the end of the runway.

The post 6 Moments From The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show We’re Talking About In Our Group Chats appeared first on ELLE.

During the ’00s and early ’10s though, the show was iconic. It was once an end-of-year celebration of sorts for Victoria’s Secret fans, usually taking place in December and boasting one of the most star-studded guest lists of the year. It was historically a huge pop culture moment in the year too, with the runway playing host to pop stars like Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber. That’s to say nothing about the A-list model list, which includes Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, and Kate Moss.

But the show has been on hold for the past six years. Until earlier this year, the brand announced it was coming back to its home in New York City for a rebooted show. “We’ve read the comments and heard you,” the brand wrote in an Instagram post. “The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is BACK and will reflect who we are today, plus everything you know and love—the glamour, runway, wings, musical entertainment, and more!”

This morning, we finally found out what a Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show looks like in 2024, and for starters, it’s just as star-studded as it once was. Especially on the runway. Ahead, find out exactly which celebrities we spotted at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

Curious to see the models in action, and the performers do their thing? Here’s where you can watch the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Australia.

The post Every Must-See Look From The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show appeared first on ELLE.

Over the past few days, new theories about an imminent album release from the artist have once again swirled. But it’s not for the reason you might think (i.e. her wearing a very specific coloured dress) or the album you might be hoping for. Let’s rewind.

Why Do People Think Taylor Swift Is About To Release An Album?

Last week, Shawn Mendes pushed back the release of his new album, which was set for an October 18 release. “My team and i have decided to push the album release date to November 15th. We just need a little bit more time to bring some new inspiration and ideas to life,” he said on October 9.

Immediately, fans started digging. And they quickly discovered that Joe Jonas was also supposed to drop a new album on October 18, but announced in late September that he would be pushing the release by one week. In fans’ minds, two huge pop megastars pushing the release of their hugely anticipated new albums from the same date could only mean one thing. That is, both artists’ teams must have found out that someone who is guaranteed to dominate the charts is releasing music on that date.

This may sound like a reach, but naturally, the internet immediately thought of one person: Taylor Swift. Swift’s ability to knock even the world’s biggest stars off the top of the charts is well documented, so it stands to reason that other pop stars, like Mendes and Jonas, might not want to go up against her.

October 18 is also the same date that Taylor Swift kicks off the final leg of the Eras Tour in Miami, with Gracie Abrams as the opening act. Many believe the date alone is enough to speculate on a Swift music release since she could easily step onto the stage and celebrate the final leg of her record-breaking tour with a midnight album release.

Then, overnight, Swift dropped two unexpected pieces of new merch: an Eras Tour book and new vinyl and CD for The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. “This tour has been the most wondrous experience and I knew I wanted to commemorate the memories we made together in a special way. Well, two ways actually,” she wrote on Instagram. “Excited to announce that The Official Eras Tour Book, filled with my own personal reflections, never-before-seen behind the scenes photos, all the magical memories you guys brought every single night AND …. The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology on vinyl and CD.”

You may now think that fans believe there’s no chance she’s about to release a new album — but you’d be wrong. Some are more convinced than ever. Apparently (and I’m taking a TikTok Swiftie’s word for this), the number three is significant for Swift, meaning there could be a third piece of new merch or music about to drop imminently. Also, fans have speculated that it’s a little weird that she announced this right before kicking off the tour’s final leg because she loves making big announcements while sharing a physical space with her fans on stage.

What Do People Think Taylor Swift Is About To Drop?

One thing about Taylor Swift is that there is no way to truly know what she will do next. The idea that she might drop a new album with no notice isn’t unheard of. She proved this in 2020, when she released folklore‘s sister album, evermore, with just a few hours’ notice.

@audreymartha Replying to @Ciara clowning so hard I’m heading to Miami @Taylor Nation @Taylor Swift @V_Swiftie_ #fyp #swifttok #swifties #taylorswift #taylornation #tstheerastour #theerastour #miami #shawnmendes #joejonas #london #taylorsversion #florida ♬ Florida!!! – Taylor Swift

That said, there are two possible albums that fans think she might release on October 18. The first is Reputation TV, which is easily the most anticipated release fans are impatiently waiting for at the moment (this writer included). The other is an Eras Tour live album, and it’s this theory that I’ve been more inclined to buy into — until this week.

When announcing The Official Eras Tour Book on October 15, the video flicks through the book to give us a glimpse of what’s inside. It’s moving pretty quickly, so you can’t get a good look at the pages, that is until we reach the Reputation pages. Why would she draw attention to it if she didn’t want fans to think she’s releasing Reputation TV? Well, fans’ anticipation of this particular release has reached fever pitch and the fact that the two pages we see after Reputation are “…Ready For It?” and then “Don’t Blame Me” kind of makes me think she could also just be messing with us.

People are also gleefully reading into the fact that Swift and Travis Kelce attended Game One of the American League Championship Series (baseball) at Yankee Stadium last week wearing all-black outfits. Which is genuinely quite unheard of for the colour-loving Swift. The theories just get more far-fetched from here, but in short, Reputation TV could be coming. Or not, who knows?

The first “clue” that the album will be a live Eras Tour album is that there are currently 18 tour dates left in Swift’s year-long tour schedule, which could be yet another nod to an October 18 announcement relating to the tour specifically. She has also begun pushing the promotion of the Eras Tour on her website, with a full redesign that highlights the tour as the main event. Apparently, Swift likes to update her website right before she announces something big, so make of that what you will. Some fans also think her recently released music video for “I Can Do It With A Broken Heart” including behind-the-scenes footage from the tour nods to a live album release being on its way.

There are other theories, but none of them holds a lot of water for me (though I fully support the clowning). To my mind, the fact that two superstars pushed their album release from the date that Taylor Swift steps back on stage for the final leg of her tour is enough. Miss Swift is up to something.

Who Else Could Release Music On October 18?

One other theory floating around TikTok is that Harry Styles may be planning to drop new music on October 18. There are no concrete clues as to why Styles specifically might be releasing music, beyond him having the star power and dedicated fanbase to push anyone off the top of the charts, but it’s a theory I am personally hoping will come true. Because while I am a Taylor Swift fan, I’m a Harry Styles stan.

The post Is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Book Just Another Reputation Easter Egg? appeared first on ELLE.

Its scarcity online is a testament to this, as the perpetually sold-out style is near-impossible to get your hands on brand new. This is even more true for Australians, who have to rely on retailers stocking the bag, since The Row doesn’t ship here directly. Of course, there’s also the option to go the pre-loved route, a quick search on Vestiaire Collective confirms that you will be lucky to walk away with a Margaux for less than $10,000 (more likely, you’ll be spending around the $14,000 mark).

The adoration for Margaux makes perfect sense. Made from buttery-soft leather or suede (depending on your preferred style), Margaux has a logo-less design that features buckled and gusseted side panels and a curved, almost bowling bag-like silhouette. It’s available in small to extra-large styles, and there’s even an east-west style shoulder bag that maintains the timeless design, though with a slight ’90s vibe. In short, there’s a variation of the gorgeous design for all tastes.

But the problem remains: it’s nearly possible to get your hands on one, even if it is in the budget. Thankfully, what we assume to be an active campaign from Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen to do away with the mini bag trend has finally paid off. This has made way for countless labels to release their oversized, structured tote bags to the market — some with satisfying curved edges, and many in rich shades of brown. Ahead, we share our favourites.

The Best Structured Tote Bags 2024

01

Coach Empire Cryl 35 Bag

$1,195 at Coach Australia

The Coach Empire bag has emerged as the favourite alternative to a Margaux bag, and not just because of the price tag, which is reasonable considering it’s a designer piece. It’s a structured bag that includes a zipped compartment, two rolled top handles, and an adjustable (and removable) crossbody strap, plus, it’s big enough to fit a standard-sized laptop.

Shop now

02

Toteme T Lock Leather Shoulder Bag

$2,150 at Net-a-Porter

If you prefer a bag with an iron-clad fastening to keep all of your items safely inside, you will love the T Lock shoulder bag by Toteme will. It has the same curved edges that Margaux-lovers will appreciate, but it also has a twist-lock fastening, removable shoulder strap (so you can convert it into an oversized clutch), and feet to ensure you won’t scratch the bottom if you set it down. We also love this rich chocolate colourway and subtle contrast stitching detail.

Shop now

03

tde Elsa Large Tote Bag Cocoa

$399 at tde

Australian accessories label tde reliably designs bags that will remain in your regular rotation for years to come. The Elsa tote is no exception; made from smooth leather and with a gold-toned zip closure, there is also a dedicated laptop compartment inside with a snap-button strap to keep it in place. It’s also available in black and white colourways, and comes with a detachable crossbody strap.

Shop Now

04

Mokki Edition Textured Ebony

$980 at Polène

Stating the obvious up-front, this bag from Polène is unlikely to fit the same volume of belongings as the Margaux, or any other bag on this list. That said, the curved shape, gorgeous brown hue, and convenient top handle definitely are reminiscent of the original — albeit for a small-bag lover. It also has a wide removable crossbody strap, so you can go hands-free, which is an option we always love to have.

Shop Now

05

Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Large Leather Tote Bag

$4,950 at Mytheresa

We’d consider a removable long strap a near-necessity for large tote bags that don’t fit over the shoulder, and of course this Saint Laurent bag delivers. That’s not the only reason we love it though. It’s made from a forgiving grained calf leather, making it well-suited for everyday wear, plus, it has a central zipped pocket to keep your important bits safe, and a classic design that won’t date. The sweet padlock charm is also a bonus.

Shop now

06

Charles and Keith Sansa Tote Bag

$163 at Charles and Keith

Though this bag from Charles and Keith has a shape closer to a square than the Margaux, the gusseted side panels give a similar spacious design. It’s available in four colourways and will make a great everyday bag for toting your essentials to and from the office.

Shop Now

07

Prada Logo-Lettering Leather Tote Bag

$6,700 at Farfetch

Also available in white and black, this caramel leather tote bag is reminiscent of the Margaux, thanks to its curved edges, side buckle fastenings, and soft calf leather fabrication. Unlike Margaux, the top handles are long enough to allow you to sling the bag over your shoulder, for which we’re thankful.

Related article:

• 10 On-Trend Mini Handbags To See You Through Party Season
• A Brown Designer Bag Is All We Want To Wear Right Now
• After A Few False Starts, Jelly Shoes Really Are Coming Back This Summer

The post 7 Structured Tote Bags That Give The Row Margaux Energy appeared first on ELLE.

The most obvious example of his headline-grabbing personal life is his marriage to Kim Kardashian and the relationships that have followed — first with Julia Fox and then with his now-wife, Australian architect and model, Bianca Censori. There has also been discussion about his personal views (like that time he said he would run as a Republican candidate, with the hopes of becoming President of the United States) and his mental health. 

He was also called out for making antisemitic remarks in 2022, where he said, “Every human being has something of value that they brought to the table, especially Hitler … [Nazis] did good things, too … There’s a lot of things that I love about Hitler.” He later apologised. 

All that’s to say, it’s a long time since Ye’s reputation was squeaky clean. This week, Ye has been back in the headlines, thanks to a rumoured impending divorce from Censori, and lawsuits filed against him by two of his former staffers. Ye has denied the allegations. Here’s what we know.

The “John Doe” Allegations

Last Thursday, West’s former “director of intelligence” filed a lawsuit against the rapper. He alleges that he was tasked with investigating the Kardashian family, per Variety.

“John Doe was also tasked by Ye with investigating the Kardashian family and supposed various criminal links Ye believed they had with criminal enterprises, including alleged sex trafficking,” the lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles, states. 

Additionally, Doe claims that he was also tasked with hiring private investigators to follow Censori while she was visiting her family in Australia. He also alleges that West became angry and threatening on one occasion after he reported allegations of sexual abuse at West’s school, Donda Academy. This incident triggered Doe’s PTSD from his time serving in the military and caused anxiety and panic attacks.  

He also alleges that West owes him unpaid wages.

On Friday, West’s rep, Milo Yiannopoulos, told Page Six: “Many of the details in his [Doe’s] complaint are simply fantastical and false,” adding that the lawsuit is allegedly “designed to cause embarrassment, and/or capitalise on perceived problems in Ye’s marriage.”

The Lawsuit Filed By Ye’s Former Assistant

West’s former personal assistant, Laren Pisciotta, has accused West of firing her after sexually harassing her. She filed the lawsuit in June 2024, but this week, she has amended the lawsuit to include more claims. One of these claims is that West drugged and sexually assaulted her when she was at a studio session in Santa Monica with him. 

In documents obtained by Rolling Stone, Pisciotta says that she was invited to the studio session with an unnamed former artist manager client. Per Rolling Stone, the studio session was hosted by Sean “P Diddy” Combs, though he was not named in the lawsuit and has not been accused of any wrongdoing in this particular lawsuit. The suit doesn’t state the date the session occurred, and the allegations are separate from the widely reported lawsuits against Combs.

Pisciotta alleges that everyone at the session was told they had to drink if they wanted to stay, though unbeknownst to her, her drink was laced with a drug. “After a few small sips of the beverage poured at the direction of Kanye West a.k.a. Ye by a studio assistant and then served to her by Kanye West a.k.a. Ye, Plaintiff suddenly started to feel disoriented,” the lawsuit claims.

The lawsuit also alleges that the next morning, she woke up and was unable to remember anything from the night, following those few sips. She says that she didn’t know she had been assaulted until years later, when West told her they did “hook up” at the studio session.

Pisciotta also accuses West of sexual harassment, breach of contract, and wrongful termination. Additionally, she says he sent her explicit messages, has masturbated while on the phone to her, and has also masturbated in front of her on one occasion.

Following the original filing in June 2024, Ye’s lawyers released a statement to Page Six denying the original allegations. “In response to these baseless allegations, Ye will be filing a lawsuit against Ms. Pisciotta,” the statement reads. His team has not yet responded to the amended filing.

The post Unpacking Lauren Pisciotta’s Allegations Of Abuse Against Kanye West appeared first on ELLE.

This is a long-awaited launch for Australian Philo fans, as it’s been seven long years since we were able to get our hands on her designs easily. When Phoebe Philo announced her return to fashion in 2021, three years after exiting Celine, the industry and fashion lovers alike took note immediately. Though details were slim, the eponymous label was rumoured to launch in early 2022, with Philo not only acting as the label’s creative director but also as the majority owner (with LVMH as the minority owner).

“Being in my studio and making once again has been both exciting and incredibly fulfilling,” said Philo in a short statement shared with The Business of Fashion at the time. “I am very much looking forward to being back in touch with my audience and people everywhere. To be independent, to govern and experiment on my own terms is hugely significant to me.”

Fast forward to October 2023, and Phoebe Philo finally launched to the world, or at least, to the UK, Europe, and the United States. The sell-out collection included a considered range of goods that ranged in price from £2,600 to £6,200 (approx. AU $4,965 to $11,840), and though the price tag is undoubtedly hefty, her devotion to designing garments that buck the hyper-speed trend cycle that favours newness above all else is still refreshing.

The range includes Philo’s signatures: timeless ready-to-wear and accessories. This translates to leather goods like supple black leather boots and cream corduroy coats (price available on application), as well as gold-plated jewellery (don’t be fooled by the plating; a ring will still cost you $900 USD) and perfectly cut button-down shirts. And let’s not forget that she recently co-signed the controversial thong heel trend. To date, Philo has released three drops as part of her ‘A’ collection, with the ‘B’ collection reportedly being on its way in 2025.

To stay up to date on a precise Australian launch date and to shop the range as soon as you can, heed Philo’s instructions and register your interest on the label’s website.

The post Phoebe Philo Will Be Available To Shop In Australia Very Soon appeared first on ELLE.

I was raised on a diet of How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days and She’s All That. I crushed on Devon Sawa in Now and Then and have watched 10 Things I Hate About You no fewer than 20 times. I am self-aware enough to know this isn’t a unique experience. The collective love of a swoony rom-com has fuelled the genre for decades.

But over the past 10 years, we have been severely lacking. With the rise of “bad” movies and predictable romantic comedies, not to mention the countless Christmas movies from big streamers that rival a Hallmark classic’s cringe, the genre had seen better days. Thankfully, that’s all started to change. In early 2023, publications like The Guardian boldly declared that the rom-com was officially back, baby, and more than a year on, I think we’re all finally ready to admit that those claims are correct.

This year is increasingly becoming known as the year of the rom-com. Most recently, Adam Brody and Kristen Bell’s series Nobody Wants This proved that, in fact, everybody wants this. Meanwhile, Anne Hathaway’s The Idea of You flipped the script on age-gap relationships and sent us all into a collective swoon.

With the rise of feel-good (and I mean genuinely feel-good, not slap-dash shows and movies that pretend to be feel-good) content, the girlies (me) are finally getting excited again. 

The rom-com renaissance is in full swing, catering to our love of nice, charming, effortless watching that doesn’t require us to be critical or feel stressed over the ending. Instead, we can settle in with the knowledge that a happy ending is waiting for us at the end. 

This pursuit of effortless giddiness has also come at a time when some of us (again, me) are re-engaging with celebrity relationships in a way we haven’t done in years. Of course, we’re never short of A-list relationships to peer at. But until the last 12 months, the celebrity relationships filling our FYP have been more about angst and drama. 

Take the rise of Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter’s careers, with boyfriend drama as a catalyst for brilliant songwriting and lighthearted gossip from onlookers like us. But in the past year, the celebrity relationship has taken a turn, and thank god, it’s a turn for the better. 

In 2024, celebrities aren’t just going for pap walks to tell the world they’re in a relationship with a fellow celebrity. They’re bunkering down with normies, kissing their boyfriends on horseback, flying across the world to watch the Super Bowl before running into their man’s arms after he wins the Big Game. Incredibly famous men are waiting in the wings while their megastar, pop icon girlfriend sings to a sold-out stadium. 

They’re rom-comming their relationships so hard and so publicly that we all (yes, me again) refuse to look away.

In the past few years, the concept of a celebrity PR relationship has entered the mainstream consciousness in a way that it never has before. Where, once upon a time, we might have shrugged at seeing paparazzi photos of Nicole Richie and Brody Jenner leaving a hotel hand in hand, we now put a lens of scepticism over every single celebrity we see in a relationship. 

I don’t have the energy or inclination to debate whether specific relationships are “PR”, and if it’s that hard to tell whether a relationship is fake or not, then I respect the hustle either way. Maybe the PR relationship game has improved since the 2010s, to the point that I don’t care what’s real or fake anymore.

The extreme measures that celebrities are taking to romanticise their, well, romances are so overt that it’s actually quite special that we get to witness it. 

The example that takes up the most of my brain space is Bella Hadid and her professional cowboy boyfriend, Adan Banuelos. As the story goes, Bella escaped the city for some rest and relaxation in Texas, to recover from some health challenges. And somewhere along the way, she met and fell in love with Adan, a National Cutting Horse Association Riders Hall of Famer. 

The pair is usually pretty private, but their strategic photo opps are quickly becoming the stuff of rom-com legend. They were first spotted out and about in October 2023 by TMZ, and then in January 2024, Bella soft launched Adan on her Instagram. 

Since then, they have coordinated their public appearances at various horse-related events into some of the most cinematic celebrity photos I’ve ever seen. She’s wearing sparkly tops and a Stetson while cheering him on. She’s posting dramatic hype reels with Fifty Shades-like music over the top, and dedicating entire Instagram posts to saying how proud of him she is. And I’ve lapped it all up.

These joyous moments where a celebrity couple looks so obviously loved-up is a rarity. Usually saved for behind closed doors, celebrities like Bella Hadid are now giving us fan fiction-like images that allow our imaginations to run wild.

Another obvious example is Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Rumours of their relationship being a publicity stunt have swirled since they started dating in September 2023, and yet, they’re still reportedly going strong. In the year since they got together, we’ve been privy to countless moments in their relationship, all captured in HD to make it easier for us to lap up. Whether their relationship is real or not (which, for the record, I think it probably is), I’ve often wondered whether A Cinderella Story is on their publicity mood board — and that’s genius. 

For the first time in a long time, celebrities are allowing us to peer behind the curtain to see the curated and sparkling public image of their relationship that makes us feel like we’re a part of it. I, along with every other rom-com lover on TikTok, always enjoy seeing Barry Keoghan simp for Sabrina Carpenter while she performs on-stage.

I’ll forever love seeing Taylor Swift’s Chiefs-themed outfits as she enters the spectators’ box at a game. And I will always head straight to Getty Images to see every photo of Bella Hadid kissing her cowboy on the back of a horse.

The post Good PR Isn’t Enough — In 2024, Celebrities Are Making Their Lives Look Like A Rom-Com  appeared first on ELLE.

Though it was the retro cabs and conservatively dressed women in the background that first tipped me off that this was a movie set in the ’50s, the setting also explains his style. Clad in olive pleated trousers, a white tank top, and an oversized button-down shirt, Timothée is seen chaotically racing around the streets carrying an oversized bowling bag. He appears to be running away from someone or in a rush to get wherever he’s going (perhaps, a ping pong tournament?).

With a slight sheen of sweat, effortlessly coiffed hair, a well-worn black leather belt, and silver accessories, this one chaotic race through the streets is all it took for Timothée to immediately become my summer 2024 style inspiration.  

If I’m being honest, I’ve always felt fairly neutral about Timothée. Of course, he has plenty of charm, is an extremely talented actor, and is widely considered to be a heartthrob. Not to mention, a style icon in his own right. I’m not disputing any of this. He was just never my charming and wildly talented heartthrob with incredible style — and he still isn’t, but he is quite suddenly the person I’m looking to for inspiration for my summer wardrobe. 

There are a few key elements that cemented these photos of Timothée at the centre of my moodboard for the upcoming warmer months.

The slightly rumpled look is, firstly, a whole summer mood, making it look as though he was once buttoned up and tucked in, but left work for the pub and realised it was far hotter outside than he realised from the safety of his air-conditioned office. It’s this undone look that makes it so perfect for summer. The wide-leg pleated trousers won’t crowd the legs on a sweaty day, and allow for a breeze to pass through. The white tank top is a trend that has already stamped its place as a 2024 staple, thanks in part to Charlie XCX adopting it as part of her signature brat look and also every luxury designer creating its own take on the logo white tank top.

The billowing button-down, worn here as a cover-up, is a summer essential, not only for its effortless stylings but also for its UV protection (and I am nothing if not a sun-safe girlie). We only have to look to Prada and Miu Miu’s viral oversized bowling, Boston-style bags to know that’s another trend that has reemerged in 2024, and Timothée wears it so well as he bustles through the streets of New York, reminding me that it’s about time I finally bought myself a large bag to tote all my necessities to the office this summer.

I’m willing to overlook the shoes, since a black runner and trouser combo isn’t quite my style (though power to you if it’s yours), and I’m unlikely to judge my worn leather belt quite so harshly after seeing the way it adds to his effortless style on set.

Though the outfit may be styled for a 1950s setting, it’s obvious that it is once again perfectly on-trend in 2024, so don’t mind me while I roch this outfit on rotation this summer. Oh, we’re so back.

The post Timothée Chalamet Is Suddenly My Chaotic Summer Style Inspiration appeared first on ELLE.

There are a few considerations when deciding on your hairstyle, including the weather, your hair type, how you usually like to wear your hair, and how it photographs. If you’re getting married in a humid location and have hair that tends to triple in size at the mere suggestion of moisture, then opting for a slick style or low bun may take some of the stress out of your day. Conversely, if you know you feel the most like yourself when you have a really good blowout or allow your natural hair texture to do its thing with little intervention, then we suggest you leave well enough alone.

Like with fashion, we always love turning to street style to find a hairstyle that might work for a big event. Seeing a hairstyle in motion at an event, or when fashion week attendees are battling the elements between shows, can give us an idea of how it might look on our own big day. Also, it’s just a bit cooler to look towards street style over the ultra-stylised pictures on Instagram.

Ahead, we have collated enough inspiration pictures from recent seasons to help inspire your wedding hairstyle.

Half-Up

Perhaps the most classic wedding hairstyle is the half-up. It’s an enduring style that transcends trends and eras, plus, it has a certain amount of casualness that really speaks to us. Whether you prefer a slightly undone look with your fringe or face-framing pieces out, or want to scoop all of your hair back into a relaxed half-up style, it’s one choice we are confident you won’t regret. As proven by the photos below, half-up styles also lend themselves to embellishments like bows and barrettes, for an added touch of intentionality.

Low Bun

A low bun hairstyle is another classic wedding look you can’t go wrong with. In literal terms, a low bun creates a strong anchor point for a veil, so you won’t risk it shifting around or falling out during the ceremony. But it’s adaptability to any person’s style is what makes it an appealing choice for so many people.

There are countless variations of the low bun that work equally well for a wedding, with relaxed styles that have face-framing pieces fluttering around your face, weather-proof slick-back looks that will withstand perilous weather conditions, and sculptural buns that include twists and spiked strands poking out. We’re also partial to a bun that sits at the centre point of your head, which can make the face look slightly more lifted in photographs if that’s a priority for you.

Down and Out

It’s not uncommon for brides to get experimental with their bridal hair looks after overthinking their decision. Our main concern with this approach is that you want to feel like yourself on your wedding day and you probably also want to have photos you look back on and see yourself in (not a made-up version of yourself that you don’t recognise).

If getting a really good blow-out, wearing a sleek bob with slightly kicked-out ends, opting for your usual choppy pink pixie cut, or embracing your natural hair texture is what feels the most you, then we strongly recommend you stick with that. You can elevate it by booking a hairstylist to slightly polish the look or help style it for longevity, but consider this your permission to not add an intricate hairstyle to your long list of pre-wedding decisions.

Accessorised

Embellishing your wedding hair with a sparkling clip, barrette, pearl necklace, bows, hair cuffs, and even metallic spikes can help add some personality back into an otherwise simple look. There’s no need to buy an expensive hair accessory, though we fully support you looking at Chanel and Miu Miu’s offerings. But it is worth considering the hairstyle you want to emulate before picking up a hair accessory unless you plan to build your dream hairstyle around the embellishment, of course.

A simple hair clip can add to a sleek blowout, and if you want to wear your hair out but want to pull some hair away from your face without going all the way towards a half-up style, then a barrette or clip is the perfect way to achieve this.

The post 31 Wedding Hairstyle Ideas Inspired By Street Style appeared first on ELLE.

Slipping into a mini white dress, or even a dress that more closely resembles your everyday personal style, a second look gown is the bridal equivalent of a groom shucking his tie and rolling up his shirt sleeves before hitting the dancefloor. If you’ve taken a whirl through Pinterest lately — which, if you’re planning a wedding, we’d guess you have — you will have seen that the modern bride is also often throwing out the rule book altogether and turning away from traditional wedding customs in favour of doing it their own way. For many, this act of quiet rebellion starts with choosing a short dress for the ceremony.

When planning a wedding, it can be hard to make decisions about the day while also remaining true to your usual style. It makes sense since you hopefully will only plan one wedding in your life, but it’s common for brides to get swept up in the planning process and start making decisions they wouldn’t usually. If that sounds familiar as you’re selecting your wedding dress, we’d like to give you permission to buy whatever dress you feel most comfortable in.

If that means walking down the aisle wearing a flirty mini-dress, consider that decision approved. Ahead, we share a few of our favourite designers who are creating some of our favourite mini dress bridal looks in 2024 — whether you plan to wear it as a second look or as your only wedding gown is up to you.

Prea James

Paddington-based designer Prea James holds a special place in my heart because the Winona Mini pictured above is the dress I wore for my wedding. For a city wedding held in a Sydney CBD bar, it was the perfect mini dress to see me through my day. It’s a classic and form-fitting silhouette with a bell-flare skirt that hits at the perfect mid-thigh length. There’s also the option to add the oversized Bowie bow to the back, which is detachable, and so fun.

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The Own Studio

You may have seen the gorgeous drop waist gowns by The Own Studio on Instagram, but this pearlescent mini dress with hand-beaded crystal detailing has caught our eye as the perfect party dress. It has a scoop neck, wide straps, and a structured silhouette to keep you feeling secure while dancing all night.

The Own Studio has a wide range of silver and white sparkling mini dresses, as well as separates like mini skirts, feather boas, and cropped sparkling tops so you can build your dream second look.

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Danielle Frankel

If there’s one brand cool girl brides are wearing right now, it’s Danielle Frankel — in fact, the label’s New York studio was even hailed as the chicest new wedding salon by ELLE Decor just last year.

Three words Frankel has used to describe her designs are modern, nostalgia, and tradition. This particular mini dress captures this ethos, with a drop waist (which is undoubtedly one of 2024’s biggest reemerging dress trends), a shirred bubble skirt, and a pearlescent hue that has a slight warmth to it, and won’t feel stark in the sea of ivory that so often comes with a wedding day.

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Acler

Australian designer Acler has made a name for itself for designing tactile, three-dimensional gowns. For its mini bridal dresses, this translates to dresses like the Clements shown above. Though the dress has an organza shell with pin-tucks along the waist and a strapless neckline with puffed detailing, the flattering silhouette is given structure by the woven fabric lining. The slight frill of the skirt also adds a delicate femininity that makes this the perfect summer bridal look.

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Lillian Khallouf

Lillian Khallouf is a Sydney-based designer who creates wearable couture and exceptional tailing pieces. Her ready-to-wear collection features dresses like the one above, with its long sleeves, panelled bodice, and hourglass skirt. We’re also particular fans of her black satin mini dress with oversized bow detail at the back if you want to avoid traditional white gowns.

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Kyha Studios

Kyha Studios has become a go-to local designer for the 2024 modern bride, and this bubble skirt mini dress shows why. This party dress is a love letter to the ’80s, thanks to its ruched bodice and drop-waist, and super-mini bubble skirt that looks like a gorgeous little cloud. The brand has more than 10 mini dresses, which is an extensive range for second-looks, and they are available to shop as part of the ready-to-wear line.

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Alex Perry

Alex Perry’s gowns consistently reimagine traditional strapless bridal silhouettes for the modern bride, and that is particularly true of its mini styles. The Kennedy dress is a case in point, with a longline boned bodice overlaid with delicate draping, a box pleated skirt and buttons with rouleau loop down the back. You can also shop the range on Net-A-Porter.

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Sandy Liang x SSENSE

In 2022, Sandy Liang launched a bridal collection with SSENSE, and this mini dress from the collection is still popular in 2024. With the on-trend rosette and bow design at the bust, plus a flattering but simple mini silhouette, this dress evokes images of the New York City Hall bride. The range is extremely limited on the SSENSE website these days, but you can also shop a few other non-traditional mini and longer dresses directly through the Sandy Liang website, as well as veils, ballerina flats, and accessories.

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Rachel Gilbert

For brides who want to lean all the way into the party theme, Rachel Gilbert’s feathered and sequined mini dresses will tick all the boxes. The label divides its bridal looks into events: the hen’s, the wedding day, and the civil ceremony. And while we don’t think you need to subscribe to the traditional styles for each important event, it gives you a good indication of the breadth of designs available at Rachel Gilbert.

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Aston Bridal

Aston Bridal’s range of ready-to-wear and made-to-measure wedding gowns offer modern designs at a slightly more accessible price point. The vibe is playful romance, with simple strapless designs and fully-beaded mini dresses with peplum detail all available to shop via the brand’s website.

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Maggie Marilyn

Maggie Marilyn recently launched a gorgeous bridal range, with delicate silk gowns that will make you feel like you’re floating through your wedding day. Though this particular mini dress isn’t technically part of the bridal collection, it’s the perfect minimalist reception (or ceremony) dress for the modern bride who prefers the classics.

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The post 11 Short Wedding Dresses For The 2024 Modern Bride appeared first on ELLE.

It’s a welcomed feeling, since we had such a strong start at the unofficial fifth fashion week in August, in Copenhagen. With that said, we’ve of course been particularly watchful of what emerging and heritage Houses have sent down the runway in New York, London, Milan, and Paris.

With comforting colourways, like one we’re calling ‘The New Brown’, plus flouncy skirts, interesting hemlines, and reimagined silhouettes made famous a century ago, there is plenty to take inspiration from.

Ahead, find our favourite trends from the Spring Summer 2025 shows.

The New Brown

As the London Fashion Week street style started to trickle through, we declared that all we want to wear right now is a brown designer handbag. Two weeks on, we’re happy to report that brown will be expanding from our bag collections to our entire wardrobes. We’ve been particularly charmed by the warmer, lighter tone of brown emerging, offering a tonal reprieve from the darker chocolate browns we’ve embraced for the past few seasons.

At Luar, this was confirmed, with sculptural blazers and oversized suede handbags all featured in the collection. Of course, we couldn’t pay homage to the caramel-brown colourway without mentioning Miu Miu, who has revived the type of weathered, oversized, and overstuffed bags that even Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen would be proud of.

Mini Hemlines

Though shorter hemlines may often be reserved for warmer months, we’re firm believers that a well-cut mini (skirt, dress, or shorts) is suitable for all seasons and occasions, with the right styling. This was proven true during fashion month. At Coach, satin minis were dressed down with weathered dad caps, crew socks, and sneakers. Meanwhile, at Sandy Liang, feminine shift dresses were paired with Y2K-inspired pumps, frilly bags, and sparkling chokers.

Double Denim

The words ‘double denim’ may evoke images of a young Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake walking the 2001 American Music Awards red carpet in top-to-toe mid-wash denim. But for SS25, the Canadian tuxedo has had a refresh with Simone Rocha adding dazzling rhinestone embellishments to a dark-wash short and jacket set and Hui adding floral print details and denim bows to a double denim set.

Handkerchief Hems

Handkerchief hems were popular a century ago, in the 1920s, and again in the early 2010s. So, it feels appropriate that the silhouette would make its mark on the runways this year, given the increased speed of the trend cycle. Gauzy layering was extremely popular this season, and that translated into shredded handkerchief hems (at Avavav), sorbet-hued skirts (at Chanel), and sheer dresses with floor-skimming asymmetric hems (at Peter Do), to name just three of many runways where this nostalgic style reemerged.

Skinny Pants

In late August, we declared that skinny jeans were officially making their way back into our wardrobes, just a few short years after falling out of favour. Based on the SS25 runways, the slim silhouette won’t just be present in our denim drawers, with skinny tailoring and skin-tight stockings all making their comeback on the runways.

At Miu Miu and Tod’s, tailored trousers featured a slimmer silhouette than in recent seasons where wide-leg pants were the prevailing style. Now, low-rise skinny trousers with pooling hems were styled predominantly with sandals, for a casual yet polished summer work look.

Butter Yellow

The versatility of butter yellow was proven at the SS25 shows. At Coperni, Lila Moss’ look made a case for the ’90s lilac and yellow colour combination, wearing a dress that features a yellow bodysuit swathed in a gauzy purple slip, and feathered embellishments. Meanwhile, the structured butter yellow coat at Prada had us immediately searching for a yellow suit to wear to important meetings this summer.

Sports Jackets

Form and function collide with the emergence of sports jackets on the runways for SS25. Windbreakers, sports jackets, and utility jackets all appeared, but most interestingly, they weren’t reserved for active or relaxed outfits.

Amelia Gray’s look at The Attico is a case in point for this, with a butter yellow (a trending hue of the season) and black sports jacket featuring tiered balloon sleeves and an asymmetric zipper paired with a sheer, feathered slip skirt. Prada also followed suit, styling a grey utility jacket with belted stockings, pumps, and a feminine ruffled bandeau.

The Updated Flapper Dress

Fringe detailing was included in seemingly every collection at the SS25 shows, with glittering fringe skirts at Louis Vuitton, technicoloured fringe jackets at Missoni, and more subtle lines of fringe at Gucci. But as we watched each fringed garment sway down the runway, we found our eyes straying towards the more updated flapper style of dress in particular.

At Andreadamo, the ‘going out’ dress was updated with ombré brown fringe (accompanied by a suitably glossed body that reminds us of sweaty nights spent on a dancefloor), and at Fendi, the longline flapper dress featured a geometric print and delicate fringe at the hem.

The post 9 Spring Summer 2025 Runway Trends To Inspire Your Warm Weather Wardrobe appeared first on ELLE.

When I started the planning process, just 10 weeks out from my wedding, I immediately turned my attention to Pinterest. But after a few weeks spent drowning in the detail, I popped over to Instagram and settled into its blissfully curated depths. It’s on Instagram that I found my photographer (or, rather, my best friend found my photographer when I became too overwhelmed), my dress, and where I pulled countless photos to screenshot for my photography mood board.

It’s the hyper-curated world of Instagram that allowed me to plan my wedding with almost no stress aside from my general tendency to find party planning extremely anxiety-inducing. The platform also provided me with comfort and reassurance every time someone questioned my choices. I’ve always been a big fan of people planning weddings that don’t fit within the cookie-cutter idea of what a wedding should look like. A modern bride doesn’t need to play by the rules — but she’s also allowed to!

A few ways I’m breaking tradition is by hosting my wedding on a Thursday (it’s so, so much cheaper and who doesn’t love a Thursday night out?), wearing a non-traditional dress, getting married in front of the bar, and only having a few seats for our parents and grandparents so everyone else can gather together during the ceremony. I haven’t bought flowers (aside from a bouquet and button-holes for my partner and dad), because it’s a dark venue and I’d prefer to use that money on a pair of Miu Miu slingbacks I’ll wear for years to come. Plus, my partner and I got the legal side of things out of the way ahead of time, so my sister can marry us on the day.

If this all sounds like the type of wedding you’d also like to plan, then tune in as I share the Instagram accounts that I came across time and again in my search for the perfect, unfussy and non-traditional wedding. I also suggest creating three folders to organise your brain: wedding dresses, photography mood board, and wedding (a catch-all for cakes, table settings, and general vibes you’d like to emulate). You can thank me later.

The Anti-Bride

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The Anti-Bride is a digital wedding magazine that celebrates couples who do their wedding, their own way. On Instagram, you can read stories of couples who eloped, decided to forego tradition or chose a non-traditional venue or dress. It’s the perfect account to follow for photo inspiration, dress ideas, and couples who centre their unique love and personalities in their wedding planning.

The Sugar Cure

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One low-stakes place where you can make a creative decision without raising eyebrows with your choice of wedding cake. My favourite account to check in with is The Sugar Cure, which creates cakes that straddle modern, experimental, and traditional styles beautifully. This frilly, domed ivory cake is the perfect example of this. Other beauties look like melting cakes, tiered retro creations, or moody red cakes.

Blake Nelson

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New York and California-based photographer Blake Nelson was one of the first people I came across when deciding what vibe I wanted for my wedding, after diving deep into influencer Kelsey Kotzur’s New York City Town Hall wedding. His photography style is genuinely unique, with blurred, movement-filled photos that make you feel like you’re eavesdropping on intimate moments. Many of his photos have slipped onto my wedding mood board.

Mudari Creative

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For bold and dramatic tablescaping inspiration, Mudari Creative will provide you with the most over-the-top options. Metre-long piles of grapes, candles on candles on candles, and a communal-feel to the main dinner are all accounted for on this page. Whether you then scale it back or decide to go for a dramatic table design is then up to you.

Eunice Beck

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It was through Eunice Beck’s Pinterest (and then Instagram) posts that I pinned down the type of dress and photographer that I wanted to book for my wedding day. No guesses for what photographer’s work appears move frequently on my mood board. She has the most beautiful ability to capture moments between a couple that make you feel like you’re a friend attending their wedding, and her page also proves that traditional, posed photos can be beautiful — but also don’t tell the whole story.

Other Wedding Stories

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Other Wedding Stories is a Sydney-based wedding photography and videography company specialising in capturing the perfect (and perfectly imperfect) wedding moments from unique perspectives. The pair (an Aussie and a Swede) usually shoot in Sydney, but travel to the northern hemisphere for the summer wedding circuit each year, which means their Instagram page is a wealth of local and afar wedding inspiration.

The post The Best Instagram Accounts To Follow For Modern Wedding Inspiration appeared first on ELLE.

This product captures the ethos of the brand beautifully. The stone-coloured packaging is effortlessly chic and travel-friendly, and the product itself has a skin-like finish that’s not designed to mask your skin, but rather, offer a touch of coverage just where you want it. This is also the case for the Flush Balm Cheek Colour ($48), which is a creamy and easily blendable cheek tint that comes in nine shades, and the Bronzer Balm Sheer Bronzer (also $48), which is a sheer-buildable product that adds a subtle warmth to the skin.

Merit’s goal is to bring an elevated touch to simple morning makeup routines. The range is a tight edit, with lip oils, a brow pomade, sheer lipstick, and a few skincare products designed to work well underneath makeup, plus a few essential makeup brushes.

This thoughtful approach is also evident in the formulations, which are pumped with skincare ingredients like antioxidants, vitamin B5, and squalane. Meanwhile, the packaging also has added benefits, with every first Merit order coming in a chic little bag that doubles as a makeup bag or clutch on a night out. Even the website is properly optimised for the online shopper, with all 20 shades of the Complexion Stick modelled on 20 different people, to try and take the guesswork out of virtual shade matching.

The brand’s Australian launch marks its second expansion outside North America, where it’s currently stocked in Sephora and on the Merit website. Last year, it launched in the UK where, according to a press release from the brand, one product was sold every 30 seconds on launch day.

If you haven’t gathered yet, Merit is a brand people rave about — and you don’t need to take our word for it. Merit counts celebrities like Gossip Girl‘s Kelly Rutherford and Hilary Duff amongst its list of fans. It’s also earned industry awards for 13 formulations, including Allure Best of Beauty awards for the Flush Balm and Brush No. 1 Blending Brush ($51).

The relaxed products and second-skin finishes make Australia an obvious choice for the next international launch, particularly in the lead-up to summer.

“Our brand’s ethos has clear alignment with the Aussie approach to beauty — Australian consumers pioneered the kind of natural, glowy look that is the hallmark of our products and philosophy, and clearly prioritise the kind of simple routines we create at Merit,” says Merit Chief Marketing Officer, Aila Morin.

Merit is available to shop directly through the brand’s website, right now. Below, we share a few of our favourites.

Best Merit Beauty Products To Shop In 2024

01

The Minimalist Complexion Stick

$61 at Merit

This complexion stick is technically not a foundation or a concealer, but it’s also both. We love its sheer, buildable coverage that allows us to add extra product only where we need it. It also adds a beautiful, satin-finish glow to the skin.

Key features:

• Available in 30 shades
• Hydrating formulation
• Contains sea daffodil extract to help diminish pigmentation

Shop Now

02

Great Skin Glow Serum

$61 at Merit

This product is a serum with an essence-like texture that’s designed to sit beautifully under makeup. It doesn’t contain any shimmer, but adds a glass skin glow to the skin. It feels like an extra drink of water for your skin, and it’s thinner than many other makeup priming products, and is best for drier skin types.

Key features:

• Formulated with four types of hydrating hyaluronic acid
• Weightless texture
• Non-comedogenic
• Contains soothing Japanese goldthread root

Shop Now

03

Flush Balm

$48 at Merit

The Flush Balm delivers exactly what it promises on the tube: a balmy flush to the skin. The product is unbelievably creamy and glides over the skin, plus, it’s easily blendable with your fingers and the packaging is so lightweight that it can easily slip into your handbag for on-the-go touch-ups. We’ve found that. it does tend to fade quickly, but this has been somewhat overcome by applying a light layer of translucent powder over the top and then tapping on another layer of blush.

Key features:

• Available in 9 shades
• Formulated with soothie vitamin E
• Lightweight, buildable pigment

Shop Now

04

Signature Lip

$42 at Merit

The Merit lipsticks can be worn as a comfortable, sheer lip or as a bolder evening look (particularly in the case of the matte finish lipsticks). They’re formulated with hydrating skincare ingredients like squalane and sunflower seed oil, and last well throughout the day. We’re yet to find a lipstick that doesn’t need touching up but these do fade quite evenly, so are an easy product to top up as needed.

Key Features

• Available in 17 shades
• Hydrating formula
• Two finishes: matte and satin

Shop Now

05

Clean Lash

$42 at Merit

This mascara is a great everyday mascara for lovers of a lengthened and defined lash but not a full va-va-voom lash. It adds just enough volume to make your lashes look like they’re naturally perfect, rather than coated in a thick layer of mascara. Plus, the tubing formula makes it smudge-proof (really!).

Key Features

• Tubing mascara
• Contains conditioning fatty acids and olive oil esters
• Formulated with vitamin B5 to add shine

Shop Now

06

Solo Shadow

$38 at Merit

We didn’t anticipate a matte cream eyeshadow to be a standout product from the range, but it truly is. It has a creamy formula that blends easily with a brush or finger, like the rest of Merit’s products, and it dries down beautifully. We’re big fans of the neutral colour range but are excited to try the darker shadows for a smokey eye and liner effect.

Key Features

• Available in 8 shades
• Buildable colour
• Easily blendable

Shop Now

The post It Girl Beauty Brand Merit Is Finally Available In Australia appeared first on ELLE.